Film Classification

Universal - suitable for all.

Focus on subjects which are generally suitable for younger audiences.
At the most there may be occasional very mild bad language.
Mild violence only. Some mild threat and menace is allowed.
Moments with ghosts, witches and monsters should be over quickly and not be too scary. Nothing at U should really frighten or disturb young viewers. The film or DVD should tell children that everything is okay.


PG - Parental Guidance 

Focus on more mature topics such as crime, racism, bullying or violence in the home. There must be nothing which suggests these are good things.
Mild bad language only.
There can be stronger violence than at U, but without detail. Violence which takes place in a comedy, fantasy, or historical film may be treated less strictly.
Frightening scenes should not be too long or scary. 



12a & 12 Ratings

Mature themes are acceptable, but their treatment must be suitable for young teenagers.
The use of strong language (e.g. 'f***') must be infrequent. Racist language used as abuse is also a concern.
Violence must not dwell on injuries or blood. Sexual violence may only be implied or briefly and discreetly indicated.Dangerous techniques (e.g. combat, hanging, suicide and self-harming) should not dwell on things which can be copied or appear pain or harm free. Easily accessible weapons should not be shown as glamorous.
There can be some threat and menace, including scary scenes which are intense or last a while. Only occasional gory moments can be shown.

15 Ratings

Strong threat and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised.
Dangerous behaviour (for example, hanging, suicide and self-harming) can be allowed provided the detail of such is low so that it can not create too much of an impression of the viewer. 

Frequent use of strong language can be permitted, although very strong language needs to be restricted and would have to be seen as reasonable in the context. 

Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. The same applies to references. Any sexual violence should be discreet and be strongly justified.

As long as the film is appropriate for 15 year olds, no certain themes are prohibited.

When reviewing the different criteria of each group, we have decided to classify our film opening as a 15, as it deals with sensitive issues and would distress younger audiences.