Research: Film Certificates

BBFC- The British Board of Film Classification

In the UK all film ratings are decided and awarded by the BBFC ( The British Board of Film Classification). All films rated by the BBFC receive a certificate, along with "consumer advice" detailing references to sex, violence and coarse language. If a certificate specifies that a film is only suitable for someone over a certain age, then only those over that age may buy it and watch it. The BBFC use a series of symbols that represent the age of which the viewer must be to watch that particular film, the current symbols used were introduced in January 2003.  The BBFC currently issue the following certificates: 

Universal
All ages admitted, there is almost nothing unsuitable for children aged over 3.

Parental Guidance 
All ages admitted, but certain scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Should not disturb children aged 8 years or over. May contain mild language and sex/drugs references. May contain moderate violence if justified by context (e.g. fantasy). Parents may wish to check the film before they let their children watch it.

12A
Films under this category are considered to be unsuitable for young children. Cinemas are only permitted to supply tickets to see a 12A-rated film to children under the age of 12 years if they are accompanied by an adult, aged at least 18 years. However, it is unlikely to be suitable for children under the age of 12.

Films under this category can contain mature themes, discrimination, soft drugs, infrequent strong language and moderate violence, sex references and nudity. Sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed. Sexual violence may be implied or briefly indicated.

12

It is suitable only for persons aged 12 years and over, not to be supplied to anyone below that age. It is illegal to knowingly rent or sell a 12-rated VHS, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, UMD or game to anyone under the age of 12.

15

Suitable only for persons aged 15 years and over, not to be supplied to anyone below that age. It is illegal to knowingly rent or sell a 15-rated VHS, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, UMD or game, or supply cinema tickets for a film with this rating, to anyone under the age of 15.

Films under this category can contain adult themes, hard drugs, regular use of foul language and limited use of very strong language, strong violence and strong sex references, and nudity without graphic detail. Sexual activity may be portrayed but without any strong detail. Sexual violence may be shown if discreet and justified by context.

18

Suitable only for persons aged 18 years and over, not to be supplied to anyone below that age. It is illegal to knowingly rent or sell an 18-rated VHS, DVD, Blu-ray Disc, UMD or game, or supply cinema tickets for a film with this rating, to anyone under the age of 18.

Films under this category do not have limitation on the foul language that is used. Hard drugs are generally allowed, and explicit sex references along with detailed sexual activity are also allowed. Scenes of strong real sex may be permitted if justified by the context. Very strong, gory, and/or sadistic violence is usually permitted. Strong sexual violence is permitted unless it is eroticized or excessively graphic.

Restricted18

Can only be shown at licensed adult cinemas. It is illegal to sell a film with this rating to anyone under the age of 18, and it is illegal to sell a film with this rating by means of mail order, or online or by telephone. Films in this category will include clear images of real sexual activity, strong fetish material and explicit animated images.