The BBFC provides film classification ratings in the UK to indicate appropriate audience age groups. U ratings are for general audiences aged 4+ and allow mild language and references to sexual behavior but no focus on it. PG ratings are suitable for ages 8+ and may contain mild language, sexual references, and violence but not in detail that could be copied. 12A requires children under 12 be accompanied by an adult and contains content suitable for ages 12+. 15 and 18 ratings prohibit younger viewers and have increasing levels of strong language, sexual content, drug use, and violence permitted but not encouraged.

1. BBFC

2. U stands for universal. It should be suitable for
audiences 4+. It only allows infrequent use of
bad language e.g. hell and damn. There may
be a kiss or cuddle referencing to sexual
behavior however no overt focus on this.
Violence is generally mild and any potential
anti-social or dangerous behavior is clearly
disapproved of due to the fact that young
children may copy. There are also no
references to drugs unless for an educational
purpose.
PG stands for parental guidance, the film is
usually suitable for a child around 8+. Parents
should be considerate to the reaction of their
own child. PG does not always mean that a
younger audience is in mind however it does not
contain any theme that is inappropriate for a
child. There may be mild language but not much
and sexual references are unlikely unless they
are undetailed and infrequent.. Violence is also
mild with no detail of violence. Dangerous or
antisocial behavior that children may copy is not
condoned and smoking and drinking is not to be
promoted. If drugs are represented their should
be emphasis that they are harmful with no strong
focus on them.
12A requires an adult to accompany any child
under 12 seeing a 12A film at the cinema.
he BBFC considers the content of 12A rated
films to be suitable for children aged 12 and
over, and would not recommend taking very
young children to see them.
Horror films can be passed
at this category as long as
horror sequences are not
too frequent and the overall
tone is not disturbing. Sex
may be discreetly portrayed.
Moderate violence is
allowed but should not be
dwelled on.
No one under the age of 15 can see a film at
the cinema or buy/rent at the age certificate
of 15. No themes are prohibited, provided it
is appropriate for someone of the age of 15.
There is no upper limit on the use of strong
language. Sexual detail can be portrayed but
without strong detail. Drug use may be
shown but should not encourage drug
misuse.
Films that are rated 18 are for
adults. No one under the age
of 18 are permitted to see
these. They are not suitable for
children. There is no limit on
strong language. There may
be strong detailed portrayal of
sex and nudity and violence
can be strong with gory
images permitted.

3. The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, non-
governmental set up in 1912.
Cinema
Statutory powers on film remain with the local councils, which may
overrule any of the BBFC’s decisions however they originally classify
all films.
Video
In 1984 Parliament passed the Video Recordings Act. This act stated
that, subject to certain exemptions, video recordings offered for sale
or hire commercially in the UK must be classified by an authority
designated by the Secretary of State. Finances
The BBFC is a not for profit organization.