Film Cretificates

Movies are generally filmed accordingly to the audience that is initially targeted. For example a film that is targeted to adults will include a lot of explicit content to adapt to the needs of the consumer audience. The British Board of Classifications set the rules and regulations of each age category.

For a U film (Can be viewed by anyone over the age of 4 without parental guidance) it must not contain any source of threat or explicit content. Nudity is allowed if it is natural and in a non sexual context. Mildly scary horror scenes are permitted as long as they are minimal. Behaviour shown must be positive in case of imitation by minors.

For a PG film (Can be viewed by anyone over the age of 4 but it may be unsuitable for young children) it may contain moderate violence if it is not detailed and if it is justifiable by context. Horror sequences must not last long and cannot be too intense. The sexual content must be discreet and only implied, never detailed. Potentially dangerous behaviours must not be shown incase of imitation by minors.

For a 12a film (Can be viewed freely by anyone over the age of 12, anyone under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult) it may contain moderate violence with no emphasis on the blood or gore. Sexual content  is allowed but in a brief and discreet manner.  Horror scenes are allowed in a moderate fashion. Disturbing sequences must not be prolonged. Dangerous behaviour is acceptable however it should not be shown in too much detail or appear harmless.

For a 15 film (Is not suitable for anyone under the age of 15) it may contain violence however cannot emphasise the infliction of pain or injury. Sexual violence is most likely not acceptable unless the context is acceptable. Sex is allowed in the film without major detail and strong sexual references are allowed. Strong horrific sequences are permitted however they must not have any sexual context. Dangerous behaviour must not be shown in an “easy to imitate” fashion.

For an 18 film (Is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18) it may contain any form of violence. Sex is allowed however not in a pornographic manor. Any level of horror or dangerous behaviour is permitted.

For an 18R film (Is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18) it may contain any content.