The B.B.F.C

The British Board Of Film Classification




What is the BBFC ?

The British Board of Film Classification is an independent body which was originally established by the film industry in 1912 they are responsible for deciding what is shown in the cinema and which is the appropriate age rating to be able see view the film.




What are the film Ratings ?

"SUITABLE FOR ALL" the means the films is admits all viewers this means a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged 4 and above. The films main theme should be of a positive situation and any violence or danger should be counter balance with a positive outcome.

Children of any age may watch PG films unaccompanied but the film should not disturb a child of around 8 years old. It is up to the parents to consider whether the content is suitable for their children as it may upset more sensitive children.

Films under this category are considered to be unsuitable for very young people. Those aged under 12 years are only admitted if accompanied by an adult, aged at least 18 years, at all times during the motion picture. However, it is generally not recommended that children under 12 years should watch the film. Films under this category can contain mature themes, discrimination, soft drugs, commonly used mild swear words, and moderate violence and sex references.

Nobody younger than 12 can can watch the film.Rated 12 Films in this category may include infrequent drugs, infrequent use of strong language, brief nudity, discreet sexual activity, and moderate violence.

Nobody younger than 15 watch a film in the cinema with this rating. Films under this category can contain adult themes, hard drugs, strong language, moderate-strong violence and sex references, and mild non-detailed sex activity. Strong menace and violence is permitted as long as it is not sexual such as suicide or rape should not dwell in detail. There may be usage of strong languages as long as it is justified by the context and situation.

Nobody younger than 18 can watch a film in the cinema with this rating. Films under this category do not have any limitation on the bad language that is used. Hard drugs are usually permitted allowed, and strong violence and sex references along with strong sexual activity is also allowed. Scenes of strong real sex may be permitted if justified by the context.