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the bbfc: a trusted guide to the moving image

U - Universal

Suitable for all

It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

If a work is particularly suitable for a pre-school child to view alone, this will be indicated in the Consumer Advice.

PG - Parental Guidance

General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.

Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

12A/12

Suitable for 12 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. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them.

The ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

The ‘12’ category exists only for video works. No one younger than 12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video work.

Suitable only for 15 years and over

No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

Suitable only for adults

No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video work.

R18

To be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults of not less than 18 years.

The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. ‘R18’ videos may not be supplied by mail order.

What is the BBFC?

A highly expert and experienced regulator of the moving image (especially film, video/DVD and video games), and also a service provider for new and developing media.

Why do we do what we do?

The BBFC regulates not just as a statutory designated authority but also because we serve a socially useful function.

Through the efficient classification of the moving image into advisory and age-related categories, the provision of consumer advice and the maintenance of our archive:

we give the public information that empowers them to make appropriate viewing decisions for themselves and those in their care. We help to protect vulnerable viewers and society from the effects of viewing potentially harmful or unsuitable content while respecting adult freedom of choice.

we provide media industries with the security and confidence of cost-effective, publicly trusted regulation and help to protect providers of moving image content from inadvertent breaches of UK law.

we are able to assist Trading Standards officers in their enforcement role

How do we operate?

We are open and accountable. As an independent, self-financing regulator, we are mindful of our unique position and proud of the trust that our expertise and integrity have built with the industry and public.

We are passionate about the moving image and balance our duty to protect with a respect for the right to freedom of expression.

We acknowledge and reflect the cultural diversity of the UK, and anticipate and embrace change.

Throughout the BBFC, we value and respect the needs of stakeholders, promoting team work and long term commitment for all staff in an atmosphere of support and co-operation.

What do we intend to do over the next 5 years?

Through investment in the BBFC’s physical and human resources, especially the experience and expertise of staff, we will:

Continue to regulate film, video/DVD and video games in a manner which maintains the support and confidence of the industry and the public

Embrace technological change and opportunities in new media

Respond to changing social attitudes

Enhance our standing as a centre of excellence in regulation

Actively promote the BBFC as a valuable social resource

Lead and innovate in media education and research

Develop new partnerships

This will ensure that the BBFC approaches its 2012 centenary as an independent and trusted resource; a high profile key brand that instils confidence across a range of media; a healthy cultural presence; and an enjoyable, inclusive and dynamic place to work.

To download this statement in PDF format, or to download the explanatory report, please go to our downloads page

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Most recent film

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THE KILLER INSIDE ME

Contains very strong violence, sadomasochistic sex scenes and child abuse

Last update 10/03/2010

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Information for parents

For children aged 5-12, their parents and teachers

For students of media regulation and film.

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Page Printed : Wednesday 10 March 2010