The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) independently classifies films and videos in the UK using age ratings to help audiences decide what is appropriate for them. The document outlines the age rating system and what content is allowed at each rating level, from U for universal audiences up to 18 and R18 restricted ratings. Content involving language, sex, violence and other factors becomes progressively stronger with each older rating level.

2. What is bbfc…
 The British Board of Film Classification is an
independent, non-governmental body which has
classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and
videos/ DVDs since the Video Recordings Act was
passed in 1984.

3. The age ratings…

4. U..
•
The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film
is suitable for anyone aged four and over.
•
In a U only very mild bad language such as
damn can be used.
•
The only sexual behavior shown in a U is
kissing and cuddling, although there can be
subtle sexual references.
•
If there is any violence in U it will be very
mild. A U may include brief scenes where
characters are in danger.

5. PG…

PG stands for Parental Guidance. This
means a film is suitable for general
viewing, but some scenes may be
unsuitable for young children.

PG’s are aimed for kids eight or older.

Words such as ‘sh*t’ and ‘son of a b*tch’
can be used in a PG film, assuming there is
a reason for it e.g. someone hurting
themselves.

If there is violence it is usually mild and
there will be no detail of the violence.

6. 12A & 12…

Films classified 12A and video works
classified 12 contain material that is not
generally suitable for children aged under
12.

Only viewers 12 and over can watch a 12
or 12A unless accompanied by an adult.

There can be strong language in a 12 and
12A such as f*** demanding on the
circumstances.

In a 12 or 12A sex may briefly be
portrayed. There should be no verbal sex
references which is inappropriate for young
teenagers.

Moderate violence is allowed in a 12A but
should not dwell on detail.

7. 15…
 No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film
at the cinema or buy/rent a ‘15 rated video.
15 rated works are not suitable for children
under 15 years of age.
 In a 15 there is no limit to the number of uses
of strong language providing they are not just
randomly said.
 In a 15 sexual activity can be portrayed as
long as there is not strong detail.
 In a 15 there can be strong violence but
should not dwell on the infliction of pain or
injury.

8. 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 video. No 18 rated works are
suitable for children.
 There is not limit on the language used
 There can be strong and detailed portrayals of
sex in an 18 including full nudity.
 There is no limits to most things in an 18

9. 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.