Film Classifications

The British Board of Film Classification is a national independent non-governmental body, which has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912, and videos since the passing of the Video Recordings Act in 1984.
These are the guidelines off the BFFC website that we need to refer to while deciding on what certificate to give our film.

For a 12A/12 Certificate

12A/12 – Suitable for 12 years and the ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. The ‘12’ category exists only for video works. No one younger than12 may rent or buy a ‘12’ rated video work.

Drugs - Any misuse of drugs must be infrequent and should not be glamorised or give instructional detail.
Horror - Moderate physical and psychological threat may be permitted, provided disturbing sequences are not frequent or sustained.

For a 15 Certificate


Suitable only for 15 years and over. No one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

Drugs - Drug taking may be shown but the film as a whole must notpromote or encourage drug misuse. The misuse of easilyaccessible and highly dangerous substances (for example,aerosols or solvents) is unlikely to be acceptable.
Horror - Strong threat and menace are permitted unless sadistic or sexualised.



For an 18 Certificate


Suitable only for adults. No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.

Where material or treatment appears to the BBFC to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society – for example, any detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use, which may cause harm to public health or morals. This may include portrayals of sexual or sexualised violence which might, for example, eroticise or endorse sexual assault.

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