Films classified in this category are considered to be suitable for those of twelve and upwards. They may also be seen by younger children provided a parent or adult guardian accompanies them.

THEME/CONTENT: Films classified as 12A are likely to feature more mature themes, e.g. Involving crime, conflict, relationships, etc., but young persons of twelve and over will already be familiar with them from their television viewing.

CONTEXT: We try to retain a flexibility of approach and look at the context and impact of the film as a whole, rather than rating it only on the basis of one short image or scene.

VIOLENCE: This should be relatively mild or moderate and it should not be imitative, gratuitous, nor glamourised.

SEXUAL CONTENT/NUDITY: Generally, only mild dialogue and natural non-sexual nudity are acceptable.

DRUGS: Mild or brief images of 'soft' drugs may be permitted in an appropriate context, but normally no images of or references to 'hard' drugs are acceptable.

LANGUAGE: Commonly used milder swear words may be acceptable, but not sexually violent, explicit or threatening language.

Here are some examples of films classified as '12A' in 2009/10:

The Twilight Saga: New Moon
Sherlock Holmes
Avatar
Ondine
Whip It
Valentine's Day
Dear John
The Bounty Hunter
Clash of the Titans
Our Family Wedding
Iron Man 2
Robin Hood