BBFC

U Universal – Suitable for all.

A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over, although it is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. U films should be set within a positive framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

PG- Parental guidance.

 A PG film should not unsettle a child aged around eight or older. Unaccompanied children of any age may watch, but parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger, or more sensitive, children.

12/12A- suitable for 12+ or under 12 with an adult.

Suitable for 12+ or under 12 with an adult. Discrimination must not be endorsed by films message. Drug use should be infrequent, and instructional details should not be given. Sexual references can be briefly portrayed, although the activity should not go beyond what is suitable for young teenagers. Moderate violence is allowed, although it should not dwell on gory details.

15- 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. The work as a whole must not endorse discriminatory language or behaviour, although there may be racist, homophobic or other discriminatory themes and language. Drug taking may be shown but the work as a whole must not promote or encourage drug misuse. Violence may be strong but should not dwell on the infliction of pain or injury. The strongest gory images are unlikely to be acceptable. Sexual activity may be portrayed, but usually without strong detail. There may be strong verbal references to sexual behaviour.

18- 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 work. Adults should be free to choose their own entertainment. Exceptions are most likely in the following areas: where the material is in breach of the criminal law, or has been created through the commission of a criminal offence. Where material or treatment appears to us to risk harm to individuals or, through their behaviour, to society. For example, the detailed portrayal of violent or dangerous acts, or of illegal drug use.  Contains detailed explicit images.

R18- Restricted 18





They can only be shown on licenced premises or licenced shops. Usually contains material that breaches criminal law. Material that encourages sexual abuse, the infliction of pain, or any sexual threats or humiliation which isn’t clearly defined in the plot.
From what I found out in my research, thrillers usually have a high age rating from the BBFC, because of the material that is in the film. For example violence or nudity is very common in thrillers. This tells me that a wide range audience will enjoy these films more because the film is quite mature.