"18 - BBFC" ("Suitable only for adults"). The 18 certificate was created in 1982 as the successor of the previous "X" certificate. It states that a film, video recording, or game is suitable only for persons aged 18 years and over.

Pre MPAA films were subject to the Motion Picture Production Code, commonly known as the Hays Code. Films were “APPROVED” if they complied with a list of strict, moral guidelines of acceptable content.

“G” (“General audiences – All ages admitted”) was used to certify that a motion picture is of such a nature that persons of all ages may be allowed admission.

“GP” (“All ages admitted – Parental guidance suggested”). In 1970 the previous rating “M” was renamed to “GP”, then in 1972 “GP” was revised to “PG”.

Not Applicable.

In 1990 the “NC-17” (“No Children Under 17 Admitted") rating was introduced to replace the “X” rating. In 1996 the minimum age for “NC-17” films was raised to 18 and the definition was worded as “No One 17 and Under Admitted".

Typically, these are mainstream released movies that have chosen to release without an MPAA rating.

Typically, these are mainstream released movies that have chosen to release without an MPAA rating.

Typically, these are mainstream released movies that have chosen to release without an MPAA rating.

In 1972 the “GP” rating was renamed “PG”. It was used to certify that a motion picture is of such a nature that all ages may be allowed admission but parental guidance is suggested as some material may not be suitable for children. Parents urged to give "parental guidance". It may contain some material parents might not like for their young children.

The “PG-13” (“Parents strongly cautioned – Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.”) rating was introduced in 1984 as an intermediate rating between “PG” and “R”. Used to certify that a motion picture is of such a nature that persons of all ages may be admitted but parental guidance is suggested especially for children under 13. Parents are urged to be cautious as some material may be inappropriate for pre-teenagers.

“R” (“Restricted – persons under 16 not admitted, unless accompanied by parent or adult guardian.”) ratings were used to certify that a motion picture is of such a nature that admission is restricted to persons over a specified age unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. In 1968 no one under the age of 16 was allowed admittance. In 1970 this age was raised to 17.

If a film is an uncut version of a film that was submitted, the label “Unrated” is often used. These will often also contain warnings saying that the uncut version of the film contains content that differs from the theatrical release and may not be suitable for younger children or minors.

Originally “X” rated films were deemed not suitable for children. Anyone under the age of 16 was not admitted. In 1970 the age of admittance was raised to 17. It would later be replaced by the “NC-17” rating in 1984.