Certification.By Joseph Nicholls

What does U mean?

• The U symbol stands for Universal. A U film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. However, it is impossible to predict what might upset a particular child, especially at this lower end of the category range.

What does PG mean?

• PG stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. A PG film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. Parents should consider whether the content might upset younger or more sensitive children.

What does the 12A symbol mean?

• 12A means that anyone aged 12 or over can go and see the film unaccompanied. The A stands for 'accompanied' and 'advisory'. Children younger than 12 may see the film if they are accompanied by an adult (e.g. someone over the age of 18), who must watch the film with them.

What does the 12A symbol mean?

• 12A means that anyone aged 12 or over can go and see the film unaccompanied. The A stands for 'accompanied' and 'advisory'. Children younger than 12 may see the film if they are accompanied by an adult (eg someone over the age of 18), who must watch the film with them.

What does the 15 symbol mean?

• No-one under 15 is allowed to see a 15 film at the cinema or buy/rent a ‘15’ rated DVD. 15 rated works are not suitable for children under 15 years of age.

What does the 18 symbol mean?

• Films rated 18 are for adults. No-one under 18 is allowed to see an 18 film at the cinema or buy/rent an 18 rated DVD. No 18 rated works are suitable for children.

What does R18 mean?

• The ‘R18’ category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas. ‘R18’ videos may not be supplied by mail order.

Why do we have Certifications?• Certifications are extremely important in the producing and

distributing of films. It highlights to the viewer and parents what the film may include and whether it is appropriate for them to watch.

• Companies can also use it to categorise movies.