Certificate Ratings

Universal - A ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged 4 years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

Parental Guidance - This is for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children. Unaccompanied children of any age may watch these films. A ‘PG’ film should not upset a child aged around 8 or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

12A(cinema only) - Filmsunder this category are considered to be unsuitable for very young people.Those aged under 12 years are only admitted if accompanied by an adult, aged atleast 18 years, at all times during the film.

12 - Recommendedfor 12 years and older. Nobody younger than 12 may rent or buy a '12' ratedDVD.

15 - These are only suitable for 15 years and over. No one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema, and no one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

18 - These films are only suitable for adults. No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema, and no-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video.

Restricted 18 - These are only to be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults, no younger than 18 years. The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. ‘R18’ video works may not be supplied by mail order.