Research into certificate of film

The British Board of Classification (BBFC) is an independent body which has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912.

All classification decisions are based on the BBFC’s published and regularly updated Guidelines. They reflect current views on film, DVD and video game regulation.

The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. Only such words as 'Damn' and 'hell' are allowed,  and characters may only be shown kissing and cuddling.

PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. There may be mild language (such as 'shit' or 'son of a bitch') in a PG film. References to sex are allowed if lacking in detail.


12A means that anyone aged 12 or over can go and see the film unaccompanied. The A stands for 'accompanied' and 'advisory'.

The 12 certificate is just for videos, DVDs and Blu-rays. Sex may be briefly and discreetly portrayed at 12 or 12A, verbal sex references should not go beyond what is suitable for young teenagers. The BBFC's Guidelines state that there may be strong language (eg 'f***') at 12 or 12A, but it must be infrequent.
At 12A, moderate violence is allowed but shouldn't dwell on detail. There should be no emphasis on injuries or blood, but occasional gory moments may be permitted. Action sequences and weapons may be present, and there may be long fight scenes pr similar. Weapons which might be easily accessible to 12 year olds should not be glamorised in 12A or 12 works. Sexual violence, such as scenes of rape or assault. should be limited.


No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a ‘15’ rated DVD. 15 rated works are not suitable for children under 15 years of age.15 works are stronger than 12 or 12A rated works and could include any of the following; strong violence, frequent strong language, portrayals of sexual activity, strong verbal references to sex, sexual nudity, brief scenes of sexual violence or verbal references to sexual violence and drug taking.


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 DVD. No 18 rated works are suitable for children.18 works are for adults and can contain strong issues such as; very strong violence, frequent strong languageand/or very strong language, strong portrayals of sexual activity and strong horror.