Certificate Ratings

As we have started to plan for our opening sequence I wanted to look at different film certificate ratings, so that I can rate my own opening sequence. I looked at the British Board of Film Classification and this is what I found:

U - Universal

If a film is rated as a 'U' it means that all ages can watch it. In a 'U' rated film there is almost nothing unsuitable for children aged 4 and over.

PG - Parental Guidance

If a film is rated as a 'U' it means it is suitable for all ages, however some scenes can be unsuitable for young children. It should not disturb any children over the age of 8 years old. It is also allowed to contain mild language or sex/drug references. They may also contain mild violence as long as it matches the context such a fantasy violence which the children will know is not real. 

12 and 12A

Films under the category '12' and '12A' are considered unsuitable for young children under the age of 12. However, a film under the rating of a '12A' means that as long as a child under 12 years can view the film as long they are accompanied by an adult. These sought of films can contain mild mature themes, discrimination, soft drug use, infrequent strong language, moderate violence, sex references and nudity. 

15 - Only suitable for 15 years or older

Films that are rated as a '15' are only suitable for people who are 15 years or older. These films can contain adult themes, hard drugs, regular use of foul language and limited use of strong language, strong violence and sex references and mild nudity.

18 - Only suitable for 18 years or older

A film rated as an '18' means that it is only suitable for adults. This means that there are almost no limitations for the content in the film and can contain things such as strong violence, sex references, strong language etc.

After looking at these ratings, I think I would rate my film opening sequence I am going to produce as a 15. This is because I believe that it may contain moderate or strong violence during some of the scenes. It may also be a bit scary for children who are 12 years old.