British Board of Film Classification

The British Board of Film Classification it is an independent regulator of the film and video industry in the UK. It gives films its rating such as U, PG, 18 and so on. I found that most teen films are rated at a 12 or 12A, this is because the film might appeal to a younger audience and using this rating it allows the films to gain a wider audience.

The regulations of a 12 and 12 A are that the theme can be mature but suitable for young teenagers. It can use strong language like fuck. Nudity is authorized but if in sexual context it must be brief. Sexual activity can be implied but it can not go beyond what is suitable for them. Violence can not be in detail and there should be no emphasis on injuries and or blood. Dangerous techniques should not be dwelled on like hanging and weapons should not be glamorised. If I was going to do a horror film I could only have occasional gory moments only and moderate threat and menace are permitted. Drugs can not be glamorised or instructional and any misuse of drugs must be infrequent.

A 12 and 12A are the same classification and have to follow the same regulator. 12A is only a category that exists only for cinema and no one younger than 12 can see a 12A unless accompanied by an adult. Though 12A's are not recommended for child under 12. If an adult takes a child to a 12 A it is their responsibility for allowing the child to see the film. A 12 A dose not exists for video.