The document outlines film certificate guidelines in the UK that classify films into categories based on their content. A Universal film is suitable for all ages and can contain mild violence or scary scenes. PG films may contain more mature content but should not disturb children aged 8 or older. 12A films are suitable for ages 12+ and may contain more moderate language, violence, and sexual references or behavior without strong detail. 15 rated films contain stronger content like violence, language, drug use and sexual activity portrayed with less detail. 18 rated films contain the strongest adult content.

1. FILM CERTIFICATE GUIDLINES

2. Universal Certificate

3. Suitable for everyone (for an audience aged four years and over). It should be set within a positive moral framework and should have no or very mild violence, threat or horror. there should be no reference to drugs-unless it is disapproving/ educational. Scary scenes should be mild and the outcomes reassuring to young children There should only be mild bad language, mild sexual behaviour and mild violence in a universal film.

4. PG

5. ‘ Parent Guidance’ viewing. General viewing but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Should not disturb children aged 8 or older. Reference to illegal drugs should carry a ‘anti-drug’ message Frightening sequences should not be prolonged or intense Bad language, sex references and dangerous behaviour should be mild Violence should be moderate, without detail Natural nudity is allowed, without sexual context.

6. 12A/12

7. Suitable for 12 years and over 12A= exists in cinemas only. No child unsupervised, under the age of 12 is allowed to view the film, unless accompanied by an adult 12= exists only for video works. No one younger than 12 may rent/ buy a 12 rated film Aggressive discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable. Misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not show instructions or detail Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted Dangerous behaviour should not be in detail and easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised Moderate language is allowed. Strong language must be infrequent Nudity allowed but when in sexual context, it should be brief and discreet Violence is allowed but should not dwell on detail

8. 15

9. Film must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour Use of drugs is allowed but the film must not encourage drug misuse Strong threats are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised. Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on detail which could be copied. Strong language is allowed Nudity may be allowed in a sexual context but without strong detail Sexual activity may be portrayed without strong detail. Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury any portrayal of sexual violence must be discreet and have a strong contextual justification.

10. 18

11. adults should be free to choose their own entertainment. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas: where the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence Where material appears to risk harm to individuals or any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual violence which may encourage sexual assaults in society