BBFC Ratings

The ‘BBFC’ is a non-governmental organisation, situated within the United Kingdom that is funded by the film industry and is responsible for the national classification of films. This means that the audience and parental guardians have full understanding of whether or not the film is suitable for their children to watch.

Different children are affected by different things; what might affect one child may not affect another, so it is impossible for ‘BBFC’ to predict what might upset who. For audiences aged 4 and over, ‘U’ films should be suitable to view.

Suitable for general viewing, however some scenes may contain themes unsuitable for young audiences. For children 8 and over, a ‘PG’ film should not disturb that child. Although, it’s the parents decision whether or not the content is suitable for their child, however they are responsible for all consequences of their decision.

‘12A’ and ’12 are based on the same criteria as each other. These categories are put into place and means that the film is only suitable for children 12 years and over. Children under the age rating may find some of the content upsetting.

Where the ‘12A’ category is concerned, it is only put in place for cinema viewing only. Unless accompanied by an adult, no one below the age of 12 can view a film without being accompanied by an adult. If and adult feels that the film is suitable for a child younger than 12, then they are allowed to take that child in, however responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

In the cinema no one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ rated film. Nobody younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated film. This may include scenes where scenes of sexual nature are present and contains some swearing.

In the cinema no-one younger than 18 may see a ‘18’ rated film. Nobody younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated film. this may include scenes of sexual preferences, swearing and scenes of sexual nature.

Put in place to state that these films are only to be shown in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults of not less than 18 years. Films containing consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults must be given the ‘R18’ rating.

James Kinsella-Brown