Audience Age Rating Criteria

U (universal)- suitable for all ages. The British Board of Film Classification states that 'U' films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror. Universal films may include extremely mild violence scenes, and do not feature elements of film such as drug use or sexual intercourse.

PG (Parental Guidance)- children of any age may view these films unaccompanied. A PG film shouldn't disturb a child over the age of eight. However, Parents are advised to consider whether or not it may upset younger children. PG films may include mild violence, and very mild versions of other elements of films (such as drugs, discrimination etc).

12A/12- the same criteria is used for both 12A and 12 age ratings. These categories are awarded where, in general, a film is suitable for those aged 12 and over. Films classified at these categories may upset children under the age of 12. The ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

15- no one younger than 15 may see a fifteen rated film, or buy one. Strong violence may be used, and mediocre sexual scenes, drug use, discrimination scenes may also be used.

18- no one younger than 18 may view or buy an 18 rated film. Highest age rating in British film, and may include strong scenes of all elements of film.

How the age classification may affect my film:

Since thriller films are generally explicit, the age classification for my film is unlikely to be 'Universal' or 'PG'. In most cases, thriller films are rated age 12 or higher, so that is the area that my film is likely to be classified. Therefore, my thriller film will probably include some violent content and/or threatening content, to help identify it as a film based on the thriller genre.

Furthermore, thriller films don't generally achieve an 18 certificate, because of the close links thriller films have to horror films. Therefore, thriller writers try to keep explicit content moderate, as opposed to being over-the-top, to avoid being classed as a horror film.