BBFC

The British Board of Film Classification is responsible for classifying all films available through British cinemas and British networks.

There are seven categories for classification: U, PG, 12A, 12, 15, 18, R18

U

'Should be suitable for audiences 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.' A 'U' must also not exploit any unsuitable language or imitable behaviour. All drug use should be at a minimum unless there is a strong 'anti drug message' and sexual content should not go beyond that of kissing.

PG

'Should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger of more sensitive children.' Discriminatory language should be actively disapproved of, as should any prolonged violence or innocuous drug use. Sexual content should be kept to that of innuendo and reference only.

12A + 12

'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.' Clear condemnation of discriminatory language must be encouraged, moderate language is suitable as is brief sexual portrayal. Moderate drugs use and violence should be infrequent and in no way glamourised.

15

'No-one younger than 15 may see a '15' in the cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a '15' rated video work.' Drug taking is permitted but must not be endorsed by the work as a whole, the same applies for discriminatory behaviour. Nudity and sexual activity are permitted so long as they are not prolonged or too heavily endorsed. The frequent use of strong language is allowed so long as justified by the content.

18

'No-one younger than 18 may see an '18' in the cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy a '18' rated video work.' Given that any medium classified 18 is only suitable for adults there are few constraints. However any discriminatory behaviour or sexual content must not encourage any such criminal activity and must be justified by the context of the plot.

R18

'Primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may be shown only to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops.' No content must be in breach of criminal law or endorse any criminal activity such as abuse, paedophilia or rape.

All information courtesy of http://www.bbfc.co.uk/