This document outlines the rating classifications for films in the UK - Universal, PG, 12A, 15, and 18. It summarizes the key elements that determine each rating, including what language, sexual content, violence, and other mature themes are permitted at each level. For example, a Universal film can contain mild language but no overt sexual behaviors, while a 15 film allows strong language and moderately long sex scenes without strong details. An 18 film has no limits on any content but should not promote dangerous or criminal behavior.

1. UNIVERSAL: All ages are admitted as there is nothing unsuitable
for children. There is only allowed the infrequence use of mildly
bad language such as "damn" or "hell". Characters are allowed to
be kissing or cuddling but there is no overt focus on sexual
behaviours or innuendos. Violence will generally be very mild,
and will contain a reassuring element. U films will normally
contain positive messages of loyalty, honesty and friendship.
PARENTAL GUIDANCE: All ages are admitted but some
scenes may be unsuitable for young children but should not
disturb children 8 years or older. PG movies can explore
challenging issues such as bullying. There may be mild bad
language such as "sh*t" or "b*tch" but the delivery of the line
cannot be aggressive or too frequent. Sex references are
unlikely unless they are unlikely to be understood by a child
such as innuendos. Violence again is mild, there may be some
blood but an audience cannot see the injury. Violence is more
acceptable in a historical, comedic or fantasy setting.
12A: The 12A applies only to cinema films with the A standing for
'Accompanied' meaning that any child under 12 years old must be
accompanied by an adult. The tone of the film cannot be too dark
or upsetting which could disturb an audience is unlikely to pass as
a 12A and would be moving towards the 15 category. Strong
language, such as "f*ck", may be passed at this level dependent
on the context in which it is used and if it can be justified.
Aggressive usage of such language may result in the film being
placed in the 15 category. Any discriminatory behaviour or
language is very unlikely to be passed at a 12A unless it is clearly
condemned. Sex may be briefly portrayed, verbal references
should not pass what is suitable for young teenagers. Sexual references can be used
more frequently for comedic effect and innuendo can be used frequently. There may be
some kind of nudity in a sexual context but should be brief or discreet. Moderate violence
is allowed but should not dwell on detail, as in, no emphasis on injuries or blood, unless it
can be justified. Weapons may also be present during a 12A and can be used in extensive
fight scenes. However, instruments which are accessible to teens (for example knives)
should not be focused on or glamoured. Sexual violence (such as rape or assault) can be
briefly introduced however, should not be focused on and must be justified. The usage of
drug misuse can be infrequently used but should not be glamorised or contain instructional
detail.

2. 15: Only 15 year old's or older can view a 15 and can purchase
15's legally. There is not limit on the number of strong language
uses, for example "f*ck" can be used as many times as the film
makers want. There may also be some examples of the strongest
terms, for example "c**t". This depends on the context in which
they are used and require justification. However, aggressive use
of these very strong terms in unlikely to pass as a 15. There many
be discriminatory language but at a 15 level it must not endorse
this language or behaviour. Sex scenes can be quite long, but
without the use of strong detail. Nudity is allowed in a sexual
context without strong detail. 15's are also allowed to portray
strong violence although should not dwell on the infliction of pain
or injury as sadistic violence is unlikely to be acceptable. There
can also be detailed verbal references to sexual violence but any portrayal of this must be
discreet and justified by context. Any drug use should not promote the idea of drugs, the
misuse of very dangerous substances is very unlikely to pass at this level. Elements such
as suicide or self-harming can be included but not dwell on detail which could be copied.
18: There is no limit to language at an 18 level, even very
strong language such as "c**t". This language can also be
used aggressively or accompanied by strong violence. There
can be racist, homophobic or other discriminatory language
and the themes can be explored into depth. Although it should
not be promoted as good. There can be strong and detailed
portrayals of sex, including full nudity. At an 18 film or video
can contain depictions of real sex, as long as the film or video
is not a sex work. There can also be strong violence with
strong detail, even the infliction of pain or injury. Sadistic and
sexual violence are also permitted. Drugs can also be used but
the work as a whole should not promote their use. Very
dangerous or criminal behaviour however can be cut from a
film.