CHOOSING A CERTIFICATE FOR 'The Walls Can Talk' - Typical classifications and my chosen classification

Most psychological drama films receive ratings between 12A, 15, and 18, depending on the themes and the intensity of said themes, Greater, more in depth depictions of mental illness, traumatic events or emotional distress may result in higher classifications of the film. Occasionally, a psychological drama or thriller may receive a 12A certificate, this is more likely when the themes of the film have been adapted or adjusted for a younger audience, but this is rare compared to a 15.

I will list a few films across the genre that have received different certificates and classifications.

Black Swan – 15

Joker – 15

Now I will look into the pro's and cons of 12A, 15 and 18 classifications:

12A Certificate

• Pros:Allows a wider audience, including younger viewers (with adult supervision), increasing potential revenue
• Makes the film more accessible and marketable
• Suitable for exploring mild psychological themes such as identity or relationships
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• Cons:Limits the ability to explore deep or disturbing psychological issues
• May feel watered down or less impactful
• Could deter audiences expecting a serious or intense psychological narrative

15 Certificate

• Pros:Allows for strong psychological themes, including trauma, obsession, and mental instability
• Meets audience expectations for a serious, thought-provoking drama
• Still reaches a relatively wide audience compared to an 18
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• Cons:Restricted to viewers aged 15 and over
• Cannot fully explore extreme or explicit content
• May not be intense enough for audiences expecting a more disturbing or raw experience

18 Certificate

• Pros:Enables full exploration of dark and disturbing themes, including severe mental illness, abuse, or psychological breakdown
• Appeals to audiences seeking a deep, uncompromising narrative
• No major restrictions on language, themes, or explicit content
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• Cons:Significantly limits audience size, reducing potential revenue
• May alienate viewers who prefer less intense material
• Harder to distribute widely compared to lower classifications

From this, I think a 15 certificate will fit The Walls Can Talk better than a 12A or 18, as the themes and concepts investigated by my film align better with the 15 certification.