Age Rating: U, PG and 12A

U: The symbol U stands for Universal. This type of film should be suitable for audiences aged four and over. These films or videos are aimed at very young viewers, such as the children's TV program The Teletubbies. The films/DVDs that are rated as so should raise no significant issues such as discrimination, drugs horror, language, sex or violence.



At a U there will be mild bad language such as bloody or bugger. Characters may be seen cuddling or kissing, few references to sexual behaviour but no focus or sexual language or innuendo.
A U film may contain brief fight or action scenes where the character is in danger, a few brief scary scenes, characters may use weapons but not much emphasis on them. No potential dangerous situations or imitable behaviour. There is normally no reference to drugs, unless it is anti-drugs or educational message for a younger audience to understand.


PG: PG stands for Parental Guidance.This film is suitable for general showing, but some films may be unsuitable for younger viewers, e.g. a child eight and younger. Sometimes films are given a PG certificate but the film is not made with a young audience in mind. An example of this would be The Artist.

No theme is prohibited at PG, as long as it is treated in a appropriate manner. PGs will cover issues such as domestic violence or racism. There may be mild language in the film but the context and delivery are always important. Refereneces to sex is acceptable but if it is talked about it is implied and lacking in detail. There should be no violence in the film, but there will be some blood. There could be passing references to illegal drugs or misuse in a PG but there should be no strong focus.

12A: 12A means that anyone aged 12 and over can go see the film unaccompanied. The A stands for "accompanied" or "advisory. " If a child younger than 12 wishes to see if they have to be accompanied by an adullt or person who is over 18. 12 is the certificate for videos, DVDs and Blu-rays. 12A is for films at the cinema only.

There may be strong language at the 12 or 12A, but it must be infrequent. There is some allowance on strong language. Sex may be briefly and discreetly portarayed. There may be nudity in 12A films but sexual nudity should only be brief and discreet. At 12A, moderate violence should be allowed, but should be no emphasis on injuries or blood, but occasional gory moments may be permitted. Dangerous behaviour (e.g. hanging, suicide and self-harming) may be present in this rating but will not dwell on detail.