The ‘PG’ Category

What does ‘PG’ mean?

Mr Bean's Holiday

‘PG’ stands for Parental Guidance. This means a film is suitable for general viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for younger children. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. Parents should consider whether the content might upset younger or more sensitive children.

Are all ‘PG’ films made for younger audiences?

No. Some films, such as documentaries, are given a ‘PG’ certificate but have not been made with a young audience in mind. However, the certificate means that any issues in the work are appropriate for the majority of this age group and nothing should upset a child of eight or over.

What sort of themes are passed at ‘PG’?

No theme is prohibited at ‘PG’, as long as it is treated in a manner appropriate to the category. ‘PG’ works can explore challenging issues such as domestic violence, bereavement or racism.

In a ‘PG’ work, illegal or antisocial behaviour, such as bullying, will not be condoned or seen to go unchallenged. Smoking and drinking will not be promoted or glamorised and if child characters are seen smoking or drinking, there should be a clear message that this is bad. If drugs are mentioned or seen, a ‘PG’ work should emphasise that they are harmful.

Will there be bad language in a ‘PG’ film?

Surf's Up

There may be mild bad language (such as ‘shit’ or ‘son of a bitch’) in a ‘PG’ film, but the context and delivery are always important. For example, if the language is used aggressively or if there is too much bad language, a work may be passed at the next category.

What about sex?

References to sex are acceptable if the activity talked about or shown is implied and lacking in detail. In addition, if a child is unlikely to understand a reference, we may allow it at ‘PG’.

What about violence or horror at ‘PG’?

There should be no detail of violence in a ‘PG’ work, so while there might be some blood, we would not see how the injury was inflicted. Violence is generally more acceptable in a historical or fantasy setting, because of the distancing that this provides.

As far as horror goes, we allow some 'jump' moments and scary scenes, but sequences showing significant or realistic violence, horror or threat must not be prolonged.

What about behaviour children might copy?

Potentially dangerous behaviour which children might copy (such as a child climbing into a washing-machine or playing with electricity) is unlikely to be acceptable at ‘PG’, especially if it comes across as safe or fun. Realistic or easily accessible weapons, such as knives, will not be glamorised or focused upon in a ‘PG’ work.

Will there be any drugs in a ‘PG’?

Nancy Drew

There might be innocuous or passing references to illegal drugs or drugs misuse in a ‘PG’ work, although there should be no strong focus on this. In addition drug references may be permissible if there is a clear anti-drugs or educational message likely to be understood by children over eight.

How can I find out more?

In order to provide adults with more information about a work, the BBFC produces 'Consumer Advice' for each film. This line of additional information explains why the film received its certificate. Was it because of the violence, bad language or another reason? The Consumer Advice appears on posters, in TV advertisements and alongside the billings in local newspapers. For further information about Consumer Advice, click here.

Further information for parents is available on this website. A film search will provide comprehensive information on exactly why a film or DVD has been given a particular category. All the issues are discussed in detail and parents can use this information to make informed decisions when choosing viewing material for their children.



1.	The Woman In Black
2.	The Muppets
3.	War Horse
4.	A Monster In Paris
5.	The Iron Lady
6.	The Artist
7.	Jack And Jill
8.	Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close
9.	Puss In Boots
10.	Sherlock Holmes - A Game Of Shadows