The 12A rating is a film classification given to movies that contain themes that are deemed suitable for young teenagers. It replaced the 12 rating in 2002 and enables children to see more graphic films at the cinema if accompanied by an adult. Films rated 12A are suitable for children aged 12 and over, but people younger than 12 may see a 12A so long as they are accompanied by an adult. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult. The BBFC (British Board of Film Classification) assigns each new film with an age certificate, designed to help audiences know what to expect from the film in regards to violence, nudity, and profanity. The BBFC ratings include U, PG, 12A, 15, and 18.

According to the BBFC, a 12A rating means that the film is not generally suitable for children aged under 12. There may be mild to moderate bad language and sex scenes, and aggressive behavior may be shown. Moderate violence and more prolonged threat/horror are acceptable at 12A, particularly when depicted in a fantasy context. Sexual content (situations and dialogue) presented without explicit detail may be acceptable at 12A, and brief sexual nudity may also be acceptable. The use of strong language (e.g., f*) must be infrequent, and racist language used as abuse is also a concern.