Certification in film

The purpose of certification is to protect audiences (usually younger people or vulnerable teenagers/adults) from graphic scenes, foul language, and explicit/illegal acts. It sets the standard for what is expected for a film for each age group, often useful for parents with a responsibility for children and thus have to make informed decisions on what they should and should not watch. This will help me as it can serve as a quick set of guidelines for what my own film opening can show dependent on what age classification we choose.

U - Universal

Suitable for people aged 4 and above, carry a positive message and reassuring counterbalancing to and violence, threat, or negative themes.

PG - Parental Guidance

Should not unsettle or upset a child aged 8 or above, thus some scenes or content may be unsuitable for younger children. Parents are advised to accompany their children or consider what effects the film may have on them.

12/12A - Suitable for 12 years and older

Suitable for people aged 12 or above, may have foul language, misuse of drugs etc however this is infrequent and not encouraged or glamourised. Children must be accompanied to watch 12A rated films in cinemas.

15 - Suitable for 15 years and older

Suitable for people aged 15 and above, no one younger than 15 may see a 15 rated film, nor may they buy or rent 15 rated video work. Violence, sexual content, and drugs may be shown, however the piece may not show highly dangerous things, dwell on the infliction of pain/injury, or show too much detail. Foul language is permitted, with extremely foul language may be permitted, dependent on context within the film.

18 - Suitable for adults

Suitable for people aged 18 years and above. Most violence, drugs etc is permitted unless disconcertingly illegal and the bbfc feels that it may cause the Hypodermic needle (theory) threat.