Task 4 - Certificates

A 'U' rating  means that the film is  suitable for anyone of any age, including small children. it ensures that there is nothing unsuitable for children in the film, for example, the absence of bad language, violence/gore, anything of a sexualised nature and drug use etc.

A 'PG' rating means: parental guidance which differs to universal in the sense that some elements of the film way touch upon subjects which would be found more strongly in films with a higher ing. However, many children would not understand these references, making the film suitable for them to watch, at the discression of their parents. This type of film should not upset its audiences, and my be enjoyed by parent/guardian if there are a few elements to the film that they understand, but know that their child will not..

A '12A' rating states that you must be 12 years or over in order to watch this film alone, but the film is suitable for a younger audience, as long as they are accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. This certificate is only apparrent in movie theatres. The film will usually turn into a 12 rating when it is released onto DVD.

A '15' ratied film will have a great deal of difference in terms of content than a 12 rated film. Adult themes will be apparrent; such as sexual references, bad language, violence/ gore and mild drug use are present and therefore are not suitable for slightly younger audiences due to their lack of knowledge and may cause them to feel disturbed by what they see. It is illegal for anybody under the age of 15 to view films with this rating. it is hoped that 15 year olds and over will not wish to engage in activities such as ones shown as they should be mature enough not to let it influence their decisions.

An '18' rating means that nobody under the age of 18 can legally purchase or view the film. Strong sex/sexual references, extreme violence, drug abuse etc may occur graphicly and frequently therefore making the content unacceptable for younger audiences. Gore and verisimilitude within this age group are more believable as boundaries can be pushed due to the mature mindset of the audience.

Our film 'Aura of Evil' will be rated '15' because it will not necesarily show scenes of graphic violence or gore, but it will imply a violent death of a character, although this is not actually shown. There is one account of strong language, although this is whispered and may not be noticed by the audience. A sexual situation is implied, but does not manifest, therefore meaning that the film is suitable for audiences of the maturity of 15 years and older.