Thrillers : Audience Research

The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC)
The BBFC is an independent company that classifies all the films which will be seen in the UK. They have been active since 1912 for cinema and since 1984 for the distribution of video for the home.

Age Classification

U - Universal - suitable for children over the age of 4. These films include positive moral framework with counterbalances to any violence and horror. e.g The Lion King.

PG - Parental Guidance - Some scenes might upset children. These films must not disturb children around the age of 8. Parents are advised to make a judgement if the film is suitable for their child. e.g Matilda.

12/12a - No one under the age of 12 can see a 12 rated film unless accompanied by an adult (12a) e.g Secret Window.

15 - No one under the age of 15 can see a 15 rated film because of the violence/language/sex or drug use that could be present in the film. e.g Pan's Labyrinth.

18 - No on under the age of 18 can see a 18 rating film because of the extreme acts violence/language/sex or drug use etc. e.g Saw.

Thriller Films
Most films in the thriller genre are 15 and above due to the storyline. They normally include fast paced action with the use of suspense, red herrings, cliffhangers and mystery. The thriller genre is a very broad genre with many sub-genres. The expected audience would be teenagers from 14 upwards into the 30's because of the modern and relevant storyline that they have. The use of violence, language and sex etc. would be moderate compared to 18 rated films as they don't have as many restrictions.

1. Se7en (Crime Thriller)
Age Rating : 18

2. The Sixth Sense (Psychological thriller)
Age Rating : 15

3. Panic Room (Psychological thriller)
Age Rating : 15

4. Silent Hill (Horror Thriller)
Age : 15

5. Secret Window ( Psychological thriller)
Age : 12