The last classification for films is 18. No one under the age of 18 is allowed to buy, rent or see a film in the cinema that is classified as a 18. 18 films have little restrictions in bad language and violence. The gore and violence are more intense, this is why a lot of horror films are classified under this. With sexual scenes they are open and most likely real, this isn't in every 18 classified movie but it is warned. With films classified as a 18, there is likely to be discriminatory and offensive language, that can upset or discomfort the audience if sensitive.
classification 15 can only be viewed by 15 years and older, no one younger than 15 can go see, buy or rent a movie under the age of 15. Drug taking may be shown, but is not allowed to promote or encourage drug use. Dangerous behaviour (such as self harm, suicide, example etc) is permitted but it will be turned away if there are details and if it is in danger of being copied by the audience. There may be strong language, very strong language is permitted but it depends on the way it is delivered. There is little strain on nudity and sexual content, but is often not allowed extreme detail. Sexual scenes are allowed but usually don't have strong detail. Sex references, jokes or innuendos have no strain on them. There may be strong threats in 15 rated films, on the other hand sadistic and sexual threats will not be permitted. Violence is permitted it will just not be permitted if it focuses too much on the infliction, injury or gore. Sexual violence may be allowed but must be kept to the minimum and only be used to justify the context.
The next two type of classification are 12A and 12 (12A come before 12) no one younger than 12 is allowed to see a 12A movie, only accepted if accompanied by an adult. There could be mentions of drugs however no use or details about them. Once again no use of bad behaviour is allowed to be used that can be copied by young children. Also no signs of anti behaviour will be allowed in this classification. Movie/clips that have the rating of a 12A could have moderate language, with some swear words. However it is only permitted if the way it is presented is suttle. When watching a 12A or 12 film there may be nudity and sexual content, but the sexual situations have to be short and brief. There may be sexual jokes/innuendos or references during the film. In this rating there could be physical and psychological threats, yes they can be disturbing but the overall tone should be not be. Violence is different though because there will be moderate violence, it should have no emphasis based on the violence. Some gory moments can be permitted but only to justify the context.
The next classification is PG, PG is general viewing however some scene might not be suitable for you children. If a film is rated PG is should not upset or discomfort children at the age of 8 or older. If drugs are mentioned then it should be used for a anti drug message, no use of it on screen. There should be no use of naughty behaviour that young children can copy. All behaviour should be fun and have a positive out come. A film with the classification of PG will have mild negative language, if any bad language is used then the film/clip will be rated a higher classification. In the film will be nudity, but no sexual content. There is a chance of innuendos but will rarely be used. Threats in a PG rated film will be used to make it more intense but wont be dramatic. But violence can be used; it would be used mildly.
The first classification is U. A U film is suitable for 4 years and over. It has been said it is impossible to know what can upset a child so the BBFC have warned parents and carers. U films are often used for educational purposes, however they can be for entertainment too. In a U rated film there is no bad language, if bad language is used it is very rare. Slight nudity, with no sexual content. The only type of sexual behavior is kissing and hugging. In these types of films there is very little violence and threats, if used it would usually be used for comedic effect or used in animations.
A non-governmental organisation called British Board of Film Classification (known as BBFC) they are responsible for the national classification of films within the UK. The BBFC review clips, TV shows and movies to give information to people before going to view it. This is to keep customers safe and away from harmful content.
There are different types of classification.