2. UNIVERSAL
• Universal is the certificate given to movies that are acceptable for all
ages, and has nothing unsuitable for children
• An example of a Universal (U) movie is Tom and Jerry the movie
3. PARENTAL GUIDANCE
• All ages are admitted to watch
• May have some references to sex/drugs
• May contain mild language
• May contain moderate violence
• An example of a PG film is Harry Potter and the Philosopher Stone
4. 12A
• This is a cinema only certificate
• Children aged 12 and under have to be accompanied by an adult
• These films contain mature themes, discrimination, soft drugs, moderate
swear words, infrequent strong language and moderate violence, sex
references and nudity
• An example of a 12A film is Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part 1
5. 12
• 12A-rated films are usually given a 12 certificate for the film version unless
extra material has been added that requires a higher rating.
• Nobody younger than 12 can rent or buy a 12-rated film
• The content guidelines are identical to those used for the 12A certificate.
6. 15
• Only those over 15 years are admitted.
• Nobody younger than 15 can rent or buy a 15-rated film.
• Films under this category can contain adult themes, hard drugs, frequent
strong language and limited use of very strong language, strong violence
and strong sex references, and nudity without graphic detail. Sexual
violence may be shown if discreet and justified by context.
• An example of a 15 rated film is Prometheus
7. 18
• Only adults are admitted.
• Nobody younger than 18 can rent or buy an 18-rated films, or watch a film in
the cinema with this rating.
• Films under this category do not have limitation on the bad language that is
used. Hard drugs are generally allowed, and explicit sex references along
with detailed sexual activity are also allowed. Scenes of strong real sex may
be permitted if justified by the context. Very strong, gory, and/or sadistic
violence is usually permitted. Strong sexual violence is permitted unless it is
eroticised or excessively graphic.
