Research Regarding Certificates - the BBFC

In this post I will be looking at different certificate ratings for films and picking which one would be most suitable for my film as a romantic comedy. I will be using the official BBFC website to help me with my research.

BBFC Website

I will be looking at 6 certificates:

1. U - Universal

A U (Universal) rating means that the film is suitable for audiences of all ages, including young children. Films with this rating are given it because they contain no bad language, no violence, and no upsetting or inappropriate content. Any themes included are usually simple, positive, and easy for younger viewers to understand, such as friendship, family, or basic relationships. The content is carefully controlled so that it will not frighten or confuse children, meaning things like danger or conflict are very limited and always resolved in a safe way. Because of this, U-rated films are ideal for family viewing, allowing both children and adults to watch comfortably together.

2. PG - Parental Guidance

A PG (Parental Guidance) rating means that a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may not be appropriate for very young children, so parental guidance is advised. Films are given this rating because they may include mild bad language, some mild violence, or slightly upsetting scenes, but nothing too intense or harmful. Any more serious themes are usually handled in a light or reassuring way, so they are still understandable and not too distressing for younger audiences. PG films are often aimed at a family audience, meaning they can be enjoyed by both children and adults, but parents may want to decide if the content is suitable for their child depending on their age and sensitivity.

3.  12

A 12 rating means that a film is suitable for audiences aged 12 and over. Films are given this rating because they may include moderate violence, infrequent strong language, and more mature themes such as relationships, conflict, or emotional situations. There may also be some tense or slightly disturbing scenes, but nothing that is too graphic or harmful. The content is generally more complex than PG films, meaning it is aimed at a teenage audience and above, while still being appropriate for a wider audience with guidance.

4. 12a

A 12A rating means that a film is suitable for viewers aged 12 and over, but younger children can still watch it in the cinema if they are accompanied by an adult. Films are given this rating because they may include moderate violence, some strong language, and more mature themes such as relationships, emotional conflict, or tension. There may also be scenes that could be unsettling for younger viewers, but they are not too graphic or extreme. The purpose of the 12A rating is to allow a wider audience to watch the film while still giving parents the responsibility to decide whether it is suitable for their child.

5. 15

A 15 rating means that a film is only suitable for audiences aged 15 and over. Films are given this rating because they may include strong language, strong violence, sexual content, and more serious or adult themes. There can also be scenes of drug use, crime, or intense emotional situations, which may be disturbing for younger viewers. Unlike lower ratings, the content is not heavily restricted, meaning it can be more realistic and hard-hitting. Because of this, 15-rated films are aimed at a more mature teenage and adult audience, as the themes and content require a higher level of understanding and emotional maturity.

6. 18

An 18 rating means that a film is only suitable for adults aged 18 and over, and no one younger is allowed to watch it in cinemas or buy it. Films are given this rating because they may include very strong language, explicit sexual content, graphic violence, and serious adult themes such as crime, drugs, or abuse. The content is often more intense, realistic, and sometimes disturbing, with very few restrictions compared to lower ratings. These films are aimed purely at an adult audience, as they require a high level of maturity to understand and process the themes being shown.