British Board of Film Classification

British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)

The British Board of Film Classification is a trusted guide to media content. They work as independent, self financing and non-profitable media regulators. The BBFC has classified cinema films since it was set up in 1912 and then videos/DVDs since the Video Recording Act was passed in 1984.

The BBFC is the company that puts the age guidelines on to films. All classification decisions are based on the BBFC's published and regularly updated guidelines. The guidelines are the product of extensive public consultation, research and the accumulated experience of the BBFC over a period of many years. The company reflects current views on film, DVD and game regulation.

The guidance for the media content starts from the rating U to R18.
What are they, you may ask? Well this is what they mean:

U - Suitable for all
PG - Parental Guidance
12A - Cinema release suitable for 12 years and over
12 - Video Release for 12 years and over
15 - Suitable for 15 years and over only
18 - Suitable for only adults
R18 - Adults works for licensed premises only



Here's a link that briefly tells you what the BBFC does

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I found my research from the official BBFC website:
http://www.bbfc.co.uk/