Classifications and Regulaions

U - The Universal classification means that the film is suitable for all ages four and above, it should be a positive film offering counterbalances to any kind of violence or threat. The film should refrain from: discrimination, drug use, extreme horror, dangerous imitable behaviour, bad language, sexual nudity/activities and violence. The outcome of the film should be positive.

PG - The Parental Guidance classification means that the film can be watched by children from the age of eight and over but parental guidance is recommended to consider whether the film is suitable for the child and whether the theme or content would upset the child. This classification makes films refrain from: discrimination unless its disapproved or if its in
an educational context, drug use, extreme horror (fantasy theme should be used for horror scenes), dangerous behaviour, bad language (only mild bad language may be used), sexual nudity/activities and violence.

12/12A - Suitable for twelve years and over, Exactly the same criteria are used to classify works at ‘12A’ and ‘12’. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Nobody under the age of 12 may enter the film screening unless they are accompanied by an adult and they feel that the film is suitable for the child.

15 - The 15 bbfc regulation basically disallows anyone under the age of 15 to watch a film in the cinema, it also disallows them to buy or rent a film or game which is regulated to 15 years old. This is because of regulatory companies believe some scenes or narratives aren't suitable for anyone under the age of 15.

18 - The 18 bbfc regulation pretty much allows people over the age of 18 to watch films and play games that contain strong violence, language, sexual content and a theme that may be unsuitable for anyone that is not legally an adult. These film screenings are strictly monitored in cinemas and ID checks are done when purchasing at a retail store.

R18 - The R18 regulation is even stricter than the normal 18 regulation. Items or films that are rated R18 must be sold in licensed sex shops or licensed cinemas that screen these types of movies which may contain extreme sexual content, violence and other certain things which may not be suitable for public advertisement.