BBFC Guidelines

Into: The British Board of Film Classification is an independent, non-government body. the BBFC is a highly expert and experienced controller of the moving image and also a service provider for new and developing media film industry. BBFC has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and videos since the passing of the video recording act in 1984.

Universal: Suitable for all

It is unpredictable to us adults what will upset a particular child, but 'U' film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. Rated 'U' films not contain any violence, threat or horror, the piece is particularly suitable for a pre-school child to view alone.

Discrimination: No discriminatory language or behaviour

Drugs: No references to illegal drugs or drugs or misuse unless they are infrequent and innocuous, or there is a clear education purpose or anti-drug message suitable for young children.

Horror: Scary and unsuitable sequences without purpose will not be adequate.

Sex: Mild sexual behaviour e.g kissing and references only e.g to 'make love'.

Violence: Mild violence only.

Parental Guidance (PG): Under Parental Guidance

General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Children of any age may watch 'PG' films but it should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to watch and decide if it would be suitable for their child because some children are more sensitive.

Discrimination: Discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be acceptable unless clearly disapproved. Discrimination by a character with which children can readily identify is unlikely to be accepted.

Drugs: Reference to a and illegal drug is unacceptable unless it carries an anti-drug message.

Horror: Scary sequences should not be prolonged and intense. fantasy setting may be a mitigating factor.

Language: Mild bad language only

12/12A: For 12 years and over

The same criteria is used to classify works at '12A' and '12'. these categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. '12' rated films are not preferred for those under 12 but due to their parents permission could be accepted. However '12A' is strictly for those who are 12 and older.

Discrimination: Discriminatory language or behaviour must not be endorsed by the work as a whole. unless clearly condemned discriminatory language or behaviour is unlikely to be accepted.

Drugs: Any drugs must be brief and should not glamorised or give instructional details.

Horror: Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted, provided disturbing sequence are not frequent or sustained.

Sex: Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portray. Sex references should not go beyond what is suitable for young teenagers. Crude references are unlikely to be acceptable.

Violence: Moderate violence is allowed but should be not dwell on details. There should be no emphasis on injuries or blood. Sexual violence may only be implied or briefly and discreetly indicate, and must not have strong contextual justification.

18: suitable only for adults

No-one younger than 18 may see an '18' film in cinema or on DVD.

Contains sex, violence, drugs, horror, discrimination and language in as much details as the film maker intended. To buy a DVD or watch an '18' film in cinemas you would have to provide prove prof of age e.g licences.