This week we have been learning about how content is aimed at different ages and in order for parents or cares to know what content is suitable for their children there is a number or classifications of certain ages created for content such as video games and films. In the UK this type of classification is created by the BBFC. This stands for British Board of Film Classification and is a non governmental company made by the film industry in 1912. We have been learning about all of the film classifications in the UK from U to R18.
The U rating stands for universal which means films of the U rating are ok for anyone of any age or any audience to watch. The U rating usually consists of content aimed at children and younger audiences due to the fact that the U rating is suitable for anyone to watch.
The PG rating stands for parental guidance which means the film can have minor violence and minor profanity and can be viewed by younger audiences accompanied with an adult.
The 12 rating is suitable for 12 years and over. This rating is found on videos and dvds meaning no one can rent a dvd under the age of 12 if it is marked 12 on the DVD.
The 12A rating is only used for films that are shown in cinemas. Anyone 12 and over can watch a 12A with out an adult and anyone under 12 can watch a 12A but with an adult.
The 15 rating is suitable only for 15 years and over. No one under the age of 15 can see a 15 film in a cinema. No one under the age of 15 can buy or rent a 15 rated DVD or movie.
The 18 rating is suitable only for 18 years and over. No one under the age of 18 can see an 18 film in a cinema. No one under the age of 18 can buy or rent an 18 rated DVD or movie.
The R18 rating is legally restricted due to this rating usually containing works of consenting sex or strong fetish material that involves adults. Films of this rating can only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas. Video works that have the R18 rating can only be supplied to adults in licensed sex shops.
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