Research into the BBFC and age ratings - Miss Georgiou

U:
The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film is suitable for anybody aged four years and over. However, it is hard to know what might scare or upset a particular child. The film 'Up' is an example of a U rating film as it only contains mild threat.

PG:
PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. A PG film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. Parents should consider whether the content might upset younger or more sensitive children. The film 'Harry Potter and the philosopher's stone' is an example of a PG rating film Contains mild fantasy action violence.

12A and 12:
12A means that anyone aged 12 or over view the film without an adult. The A stands for 'accompanied' and 'advisory'. Children younger than 12 may see the film if they are with an adult, who must watch the film with them. The 12 certificate is for videos, DVDs and Blu-rays. 12A is for films at the cinema only. 'Spiderman' is an example of a 12A film as it contains scenes of strong violence but, originally the film was meant for younger children as spiderman was a comic, but the BBFC had to give it a 12A rating.
15:
No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy ‘15’ rated DVD. 15 rated works are not suitable for children under 15 years of age because it may contain strong violence, sexual references and gore. The film 'Insidious' is an example of 15 rating as it contains strong psychological horror, violence and language.

18:
Films rated 18 are for adults. Nobody under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated DVD. No 18 rated works are suitable for children. The film 'Texas chainsaw massacre' is an example of a 18 rating film as it contains strong, bloody violence and strong language.