R18 Rating

R18 - To be shown only in specially licensed cinemas, or supplied only in licensed sex shops, and to adults only.

The R18 category is a special and legally-restricted classification primarily for explicit works of consenting sex or strong fetish material involving adults. Films may only be shown to adults in specially licensed cinemas, and video works may be supplied to adults only in licensed sex shops. R18 video works may not be supplied by mail order.

The following content is not acceptable in an R18 film/video work:

• Material which is in breach of the criminal law, including material judged to be obscene under the current interpretation of the Obscene Publications Act 1959 (see Annexe)

• Material (including dialogue) likely to encourage an interest in sexually abusive activity which may include adults role-playing as non-adults

• The portrayal of sexual activity which involves real or apparent lack of consent. Any form of physical restraint which prevents participants from indicating a withdrawal of consent

• The infliction of pain or acts which may cause lasting physical harm, whether real or (in a sexual context) simulated. Some allowance may be made for moderate, non-abusive, consensual activity

• Penetration by any object associated with violence or likely to cause physical harm

• Sexual threats, humiliation or abuse which do not form part of a clearly consenting role-playing game. Strong physical or verbal abuse, even if consensual, is unlikely to be acceptable

These guide lines will be applied to the same standard regardless of sexual orientation of the activity portrayed.