BBFC

BBFC, which is a British independent company set up in 1912, stands for British Board of Film Classification. It's there responsibility to classify cinema films to the appropriate age certificate for public viewing. The BBFC also rates video games and DVD releases, based on what is appropriate for a certain audience.Such factors that are heavily considered when deciding a films age certificate are things like sexual content, violence, the language used, drugs and violence. This highlights why it's extremely important to get the age rating of a film right as it warns the audience of the content within the film.

Here are some examples of the following age certificate issued by the BBFC:

U stands for universal and it is appropriate for all audience who are aged four and over, due to there being nothing unsuitable for children. It would be impossible for any U films to contain any treat, violence or horror. Popular films for children which have been given a U age certificate include Shrek and Alvin and The Chipmunks.

PG stands for Parental Guidance. A film with the parental guidance rating means it's suitable for 'General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children'. Majority of PG films shouldn't disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are also advised to contemplate whether the content of the film might affect their child.

Both 12 and 12A age rating have exactly the same criteria. Children under the age of 12 can't see a 12A film unless they're accompanied by an adult. This means it's up to the parents to decide whether or not to let their child watch the film. In addition, films that are classified as12A means it's not suitable for a child below 12. This will also have a influence on a parent's decision. Between 12 and 12A 12 is the most common film classification given to films such as The Dark Knight.  

15 is the age rating given to films such as 127 hours, for people who are aged 15 and over. Any one younger than 15 aren't allowed to see a film classified as15 in a cinema. Even if a parent decides to bring their child, who isn't 15, along to watch a film such as 127 hours it's up to the workers at the cinema to decide whether or not they should watch the film. Strong language, violence and bad behaviour are heavily used in films rated 15.  

The BBFC states that no one under the age of 18 is allowed to watch an 18 film in the cinema. This is most likely due to the heavy violence and strong sexual scenes most films rated 18 feature, which is also why any one under the age of 18 are not allowed to buy or rent an 18 rated video. I.D is usually required for films rated 18. However, this is mostly common with young adults (18) who may not look there age.