The document outlines the different age ratings used by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) to classify films and videos in the United Kingdom. U means suitable for all ages, while PG, 12, 12A, 15, and 18 ratings specify the minimum age restrictions for viewing. The 12 and 12A ratings differ in that 12 is only for videos/DVDs while 12A is for films in cinemas. The R18 rating is legally restricted and allows explicit adult content to be shown only in licensed venues for adults.

1. Age ratings
U: Suitable for all
A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. However, it is
impossible to predict what might upset a particular child, especially at this lower end
of the category range. Films or DVDs with this BBFC insight should raise no significant
issues in terms of discrimination, drugs, horror, imitable behaviour, language, nudity, sex, theme or
violence.
PG: A film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for
younger children. A PG film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older.
Parents should consider whether the content might upset younger or more sensitive
children.
12 and 12A: Over 12
12A means that anyone aged 12 or over can go and see the film unaccompanied. The
A stands for 'accompanied' and 'advisory'. Children younger than 12 may see the film
if they are accompanied by an adult (e.g. someone over the age of 18), who must
watch the film with them.
Difference between 12 and 12A: The 12 certificate is just for videos, DVDs and Blurays. 12A is for films at the cinema only.
15: No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a ‘15’ rated
DVD. 15 rated works are not suitable for children under 15 years of age. No theme is
prohibited, provided the treatment is appropriate for 15 year olds.
18: Films rated 18 are for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or
buy/rent an 18 rated DVD. No 18 rated works are suitable for children. No theme is prohibited
at 18. Adults are free to pick their own entertainment within the law, so it is possible some
themes tackled at 18 may be offensive even to some adult viewers.
R18: The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of
consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in
specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex
shops. ‘R18’ videos may not be supplied by mail order.