R18

On November 1, 1982, the BBFC introduced a new system of film classification. Its certificates were
Uc, U, 12, 15, 18 and R18. (You will find the classification system, including its history, under BBFC).

The R18 classification is depicted with white lettering on a dark blue rectangle (in landscape aspect)
Restricted
    18

The classification of R18 films is fascinating, and probably pushes back the boundaries of what the British public regard as legal content in films.

So, to quote from the BBFC, if I may.

'R18' To be supplied only in licensed sex shops to adults of not less than 18 years The 'R18' category is a special and legally restricted classification primarily for explicit videos of consenting sex between adults. Such videos may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops, of which there are currently about 90 in the UK. 'R18' videos may not be supplied by mail order.

The following content is not acceptable

• Any material which is in breach of the criminal law
• Material likely to encourage an interest in abusive sexual activity (eg paedophilia, incest) which may include depictions involving adults
• role-playing as non-adults
• The portrayal of any sexual activity, whether real or simulated, which involves lack of consent
• The infliction of pain or physical harm, real or (in a sexual context) simulated. Some allowance may be made for mild consensual activity
• Any sexual threats or humiliation which do not form part of a clearly consenting role-playing game
• The use of any form of physical restraint which prevents participants from withdrawing consent, for example, ball gags
• Penetration by any object likely to cause actual harm or associated with violence
• Activity which is degrading or dehumanising (examples include the portrayal of bestiality, necrophilia, defecation, urolagnia)

The following content, subject to the above, may be permitted

• Aroused genitalia
• Masturbation
• Oral-genital contact including kissing, licking and sucking
• Penetration by finger, penis, tongue, vibrator or dildo
• Non-harmful fetish material
• Group sexual activity
• Ejaculation and semen

These guidelines make no distinction between heterosexual and homosexual activity.