When was 12 rating introduced

Nudity: Nudity is allowed, but in a sexual context will be brief and discreet. Sex: Sexual activity may be implied. Sexual references may reflect the familiarity of most adolescents today with sex education through school. Violence: Violence must not dwell on detail. There should be no emphasis on injuries or blood.

Sexual violence may only be implied or briefly indicated and without physical detail. Imitable techniques: Dangerous techniques examples include: combat, hanging, suicides should contain no imitable detail. Realistic and contemporary weapons should not be glamorised. Horror: Sustained threat and menace is permitted. Occasional gory moments only. In response, the BBFC trialled a 12A scheme, meaning children under 12 could be admitted if accompanied by an adult. It was a success, and the 12A rating became widespread.

The new rating effectively ended the era of cavalier PG ratings, and gave censors a new category to retroactively use for films that had previously pushed the boundaries. Today, PG has a much stricter top end, meaning a milder parental warning.

In a sense, yes. The BBFC regularly surveys more than 10, people, then modifies classification guidelines to reflect public opinion. These consultations act as a way of making the BBFC accountable.

Besides, 12A also allows previously cut material to be reinstated as with Temple of Doom. The legal responsibility for classifying cinema films lies with the local authorities , but in practice these powers are rarely used. The local authorites are, except in exceptional circumstances, content for the BBFC to carry out the role on their behalf.

The distributor of Spider-Man decided to re-release the film immediately after the introduction of 12A so that young fans in parts of the country where local authorities had not changed the rating had the chance to see the film at the cinema. The decision to introduce 12A had nothing to do with Spider-Man or the pressure from parents and children who wanted to see the film. The BBFC had announced its decision to consider changing the category in September because it recognised that children were growing up faster and that parents were better placed to decide what their children should watch.

For the record, the very first official 12A rated film was The Bourne Identity. By clicking the I agree button, you agree to us doing so.