Introduction

In films there are age ratings which stop people from watching films who are under the certain age
content. This is done because young children cant handle the content. For example anyone who is
not 15 and over cannot watch a 15 rated film.

What is allowed in a 15rated film?

In a 15 you are allowed

Strong violence
Frequent strong language (e.g. 'f***').
Portrayals of sexual activity
Strong verbal references to sex
Sexual nudity
Brief scenes of sexual violence or verbal references to sexual violence
Discriminatory language or behaviour
Drug taking

Producers need to know this because if they add things beyond the age limit set for example a 15
then they would have to make it an 18. This could impact on the planning on the script.
What is allowed in an 18 rated film?

Very strong violence

Frequent strong language (e.g. 'f***') and / or very strong language (e.g. c***)
Strong portrayals of sexual activity
Strong blood and gore
Real sex (in some circumstances)
Scenes of sexual violence
Strong horror
Discriminatory language and behaviour

Producers need to know this to be aware so that they know there arent many limits to what they
can do in the film there would be a wider range to what they could do when they dont have
restrictions.
Summarise
This is important because in order to make a good thriller film I first need to know what target
audience I will aim for. It is also important because it will tell me whether or not the content I use
will be suitable for the age I pick.