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.

The age ratings…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

R18The 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.