Universal-suitable for allIt is almost impossible to predict what might distress any particular child, however; a film which is rated 'U' should be suitable for all audiences aged four years and over.
In a 'U' rated movie there no references to illegal drugs, unless they are very infrequent and innocuous. If there is any horror in a 'U' it should be very mild, and unlikely to cause anxiety to young children. There is no imitable behaviour, which young children are likely to copy or get ideas from. There is no use of bad language, and if there is, it is extremely mild and infrequent. A 'U' would only include very occasional natural nudity, with no sexual contact. A universal movie would not include strong 'sex scenes', it would possibly include mild sexual behaviour, i.e kissing. Themes must be sensitive and appropriate for young children to watch. In a 'U' the violence is very mild, there could possibly be a mild threat or something moderate like that.
PG- Parental guidance Parental Guidance is general viewing, nevertheless; some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Children ages eight or older should not be disturbed by a movie that is rated 'PG', parents or guardians are advised to accompany young children whilst watching a 'PG' rated movie.
Discriminatory language or behaviour is very unlikely to be acceptable in a 'PG' rated movie, unless it is clearly disapproved of, in a, educational or historical context. References to illegal drugs or drug misuse must be harmless or carry a suitable anti-drug message. Alarming or frightening sequences should not be prolonged or intense. A 'PG' does not carry out any detail of potentially dangerous behaviour, which young children are likely to copy. The use of bad language in a 'PG' is extremely mild. The nudity is natural, with absolutely not sexual context. Any sort of sexual activity is discreet and infrequent, a 'PG' only embraces mild sex references. If the 'PG' rated movie includes serious and pressing issues, nothing in their treatment should accept unacceptable behaviour. Very moderate violence, without much detail, may be allowed, if justified by its context.
'12A'/'12'- Suitable For 12 Years and Over
The '12A' category exists for cinema films only, if accompanied by an adult children under the age of 12 can watch a '12A' although it is not recommended. Children below the age of 12 can not watch a '12A' film without an adult.
The '12' category exists only for video works, children under the age of 12 can not buy or rent a '12' rated video or DVD.
Discriminatory behaviour or language must not be supported by the work as a whole. Any kind of misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be glamorised or encouraged. Moderate or reasonable physical and psychological threat may be permitted, provided that discomforting clips are not regular or continuous. Easily accessible weapons should not be glamorised, and dangerous behaviour, i.e suicide, should not be preoccupied on detail which could potentially be copied. Very strong language should be very infrequent, however; moderate and light swear words are acceptable. Nudity is allowed, but in sexual context it must be brief and subtle. Sexual references or sexual activity may be briefly and discreetly portrayed. Mature themes are acceptable within reason, as they must be suitable for young teenagers. Very light and moderate violence is allowed, but should not dwell on detail.
'15'- Suitable Only For 15 Years and Over No one under the age of 15 can watch a '15' in cinemas, or buy or rent a '15' rated video. A '15' rated film must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour. Drug taking may be displayed, but the film as a whole must not be promote drug misuse. Strong threat or danger may be shown, unless if it is sadistic or sexualised. Easily accessible weapons must not be nurtured, and dangerous behaviour should not dwell on detail which could be copied. Very strong language can be frequent, the strongest terms are acceptable if it is used in context and moderation. Nudity is acceptable in a sexual context but without strong detail, and sexual activity may be shown without strong detail. No theme is unacceptable, provided that the treatment is suitable for 15 year old children. Violence may be strong, but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury, very strong gory images are questionable, and unlikely to be acceptable.
'18'- Suitable For Adults OnlyChildren under the age of 18 are not allowed to see an '18' in cinemas, they are also not allowed to rent or buy an '18'. The Human Rights Act 1998, at '18' the BBFC's guideline concerns will not normally override the principle that adults should be free to choose their own entertainment, exceptions are most likely in the following areas: Where material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commissions of a criminal offence. Where material or treatment appears to the BBFC to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society. Where there are more explicit images of sexual activity which cannot be justified by context.
*I got this information from using google search engine.
