Classification Post

U Rating:

U stands for 'Universal', meaning it should be suitable for children 4 years and older. However, seeing as different children are upset/scared by different things, it is difficult to determine whether the particular film that is rated 'U' will affect 4 year olds. At most, words such as 'damn' and 'hell' will be used as curse words, for others are deemed inappropriate for the ears of a child. An example of a U film is Toy Story. This film does not contain stressful scenes, nor any sexual references, aside from maybe a kiss. Also, there is no reference to drugs or discriminatory language throughout the film. Levels of violence in a U rated film will also be limited to very mild fight scenes at most.


PG Rating: 

PG stands for 'Parental Guidance', meaning it should not unsettle children over the age of eight. It is left to parents as to whether their specific child can view this film without being disturbed in any way (scary parts, violent parts and partial nudity). Mild language like 'shit' or 'son of a bitch'. Blood can be seen in a PG rated movie, but not where the blood is coming from (the specific injury). Smoking and drinking will not be advertised within these films in case children aspire to be like the characters smoking and drinking. Drugs may be mentioned but will not be the main focus of the film at all. An example of a PG film is Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone.




12/12A:

12 rated films are for children and adults aged 12 and over, whereas 12A films are for children under 12 to view at the cinema with an adult. The use of strong language in 12/12A films is extensive, and the 'f word' can even be used, depending on who is using it or in what circumstance. Sexual references may be made, as well as sex actually being briefly portrayed, and nudity is also allowed in 12/12A films, but not for long. Many horror films are 12/12A, but are a lot less violent, scary and psychologically damaging than horror films that may have an 18 rating. An example of a 12A film is The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.



15:

15 rated films are for teenagers and adults aged 15 and over. These films can include much more violence, swearing, sexual references than the previous rated films, due to the fact that people aged 15 and up are deemed old enough to view such features. Frequent strong language is allowed, even the occasional use of the 'c word'.  Homophobic, racist and sexist comments are allowed to be made, especially if the film is exploring the effects of such comments. Whilst encouraging drug use in not allowed, portraying people taking drugs is accepted in a 15 rates film.

18:

18 rated films are for adults aged 18 and over. These films can include very strong language frequently, strong blood and gore, real sex, discriminatory language and behaviour, and scenes of sexual violence. 18 rated horror films can contain strong horror, gore, and sustained threat. All drugs may be shown, but, yet again, the movie must not promote or encourage use of drugs to the audience of the movie, in case they are influenced. Very dangerous or criminal behaviour may be considered to be cut from an 18 rated movie as well.


R18 Rating:


The R18 rated films are like an extreme version of an 18 rated film. They are in a special legally restricted category. In R18 rated films they may have included detailed sexual activity or strong fetish material involving adults. Films like these must only be shown in licensed cinemas and only sold in adult only licensed sex shops.