Film Classifications

1. Classifications
By
Grace Cambridge

2. U Classification
U stands for universal. Films classified as a U are suitable for children
aged 4 and over. Films aged at very young viewers are rated U and
then say ‘particularly suitable for pre-school children’.
• At U infrequent use of the words ‘damn’ and ‘hell’ and other mild
bad language may be used.
• Characters may be shown kissing or cuddling and there may be
reference to sexual behavior how ever this is not focused on.
• Very mild violence may be shown for example a brief fight scene.
The ‘baddie’ may carry a weapon.
• Not normally any reference to drugs
Films classified as a U

3. PG Classification
PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means the film is suitable for
general viewing. They should not upset children aged around 8 or older.
• There may be some bad language such as ‘shit’ or ‘son of a bitch’. It
can explore issues such as bullying, bereavement or racism.
• References to sex are unlikely unless they are undetailed and
infrequent.
• Violence will usually be mild. No detail of violence. There may be
some blood however the audience wouldn't’t see the injury.
• There may be passing references to illegal drugs or drug misuse.
Films classed as PG include-

4. 12 and 12A
Classification
Films rated a 12A means that any child under the age of 12 can view the film as long
as they are accompanied by an adult. The tone of the film effects its classification as
if the work is unsettling or very dark it is unlikely to be classed as a 12A.
• Strong language such as f*** may be passed as a 12 or 12A depending on the
manner in which it is used. Any discrimination language or behavior will not be
endorsed by the work as a whole.
• Sex may discreetly or briefly portrayed. Verbal sex references shouldn’t go
beyond what is suitable for young teenagers.
• Moderate violence is allowed but shouldn’t dwell on detail. There should be no
emphasis on injuries or blood however occasional gory moments are permitted.
• Dangerous behavior such as suicide may be shown. Infrequent sight of drug
misuse may be shown however must not be glamorised.
Films Classed under 12 or 12A include-

5. 15 Classification
This means no- one under the age of 15 can watch this film.
In a 15 you may see-
• Strong violence
• Frequent strong language (f***) or (c***)
• Portrayals of sexual activity (without strong detail)
• Strong verbal references to sex
• Sexual nudity
• Brief scenes of sexual violence
• Discriminating language or behavior
• Drug taking (but must not promote or encourage drug misuse)
Films that have been classed as a 15 include –

6. 18 Certificate
No under 18 are allowed to see a 18 film or buy them in a shop.
18’s may include
• Very Strong Violence
• Frequent strong language
• Strong portals of sexual activity
• Scenes of sexual violence
• Strong horror
• Strong blood and gore
• Real sex (in some circumstances)
• Discriminatory language and behavior
• Drug taking ( it must not promote or encourage drug misuse)
Films classed as an 18 include-