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.
What is classification?
All classification decisions are based on the BBFC’s published and regularly updated Guidelines. The Guidelines are the product of extensive public consultation, research and the accumulated experience of the BBFC over many years. They reflect current views on film, DVD and video game regulation.
Types of classification?
U- The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. However, it is impossible to predict what might upset a particular child.
PG- PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes might be unsuitable for young children. A PG film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older. Parents should decide whether the content will upset younger, or more sensitive, children.
12 and 12A- Films classified 12A and 12 contain material that is not entirely suitable for children aged under 12. No one younger than 12 may see a 12A film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult. Adults planning to take a child under 12 to view a 12A film should decide whether the film is suitable for that child.
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. Things you may see in 15 films are: Strong violence,frequent strong language (e.g. 'f***'), portrayals of sexual activity, strong verbal references to sex, sexual nudity, brief scenes of sexual violence or verbal references to sexual violence, discriminatory language or behavior, drug taking.
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. The same sort of things to usually see would be the same as a 15 rating however, there would be more sex scenes etc.