Target Audience & Rating

When films are rated U, PG, 12, 15 or 18, there are specific reasons why.

12/12A: Horror films with jump scares more than visually graphic things can be rated at a 12/12A, eg. "Woman In Black"

Moderate Drug use

Moderate bad language

Moderate sexual scenes

Moderate threat

Moderate violence

Nudity is possible, but it is short and discreet

15: The most common rating for horror films. Most common horror genre at this rating is psychological, eg. "Insidious"

Drug use can be shown, but not in a convincible aspect

Sexual contact may be shown, but not in strong detail

Dangerous behaviours can be shown but scenes can't dwell on detail

There may be strong horror and threat for a 15

Violence may be strong but cannot dwell on pain or injury 

18: Not many films are rated 18, as it means a smaller audience will view, giving them less money. 18's will be rated at this for a reason, such as very bad language which is offensive or racist, strong sex scenes such as rape, disturbing psychological scenes or strong violence or threat is permitted. Gore is often rated at 18 as it's un-normal behaviour, eg. "Hostel".

The BBFC are a trusted organisation for media content in the UK. Their mission is to protect the public (especially children) from content which may raise harm risks, as well as empowering parents to make informed viewing choices. The next one is to recognize and respect adult freedom of choice within the law. They are extremely important in the UK as they help the country recognize particular media products which would be suitable for different people around the country, as the media can create explicit content which could be easy to access.