Cinema

The persons in charge of organising public cinematographic representations (hereinafter “the organisers”) are subject to certain obligations regarding the protection of minors. The objective is to allow viewers, especially young audiences, to enjoy entertainment adapted to their age and to avoid exposure to inappropriate content likely to harm their physical, mental or moral development.

ALIA monitors compliance and proper application of these rules.

• Age classification: the organiser is obliged to examine the content of the film with regard to the following elements: violence, horror, sexuality, discrimination (racial, sexual, opinion, religion or nationality), incitement to hatred, drug or alcohol abuse, inappropriate language, sensitive themes including suicide and the breakdown of families, the overall impact of the film or the projected images. Based on the aforementioned criteria, the organiser must then classify the film into one of the following categories:
  • accessible to all
  • accessible from 6 years and above
  • accessible from 12 years and above
  • accessible from 16 years and above
  • accessible from 18 years and above

Minors aged 6 years or older may be admitted to a film classified in a category higher than their age, if accompanied by at least one parent or legal guardian.

• Visible indication of the classification of the film: the organisers ensure that the signage of the film classification is displayed in a visible way, in particular at the places where entrance tickets are issued and on the displays with the prices and the screening times. In addition, any programmes communicated by the organiser must inform about the classification of the film.
• Access control to the cinematographic representation:  to guarantee compliance with the age limits, the organiser ensures the implementation of age controls at the entrance to public sessions. A person authorised by the organiser is responsible for refusing entry to anyone who does not meet the minimum age required for the film or who cannot provide proof of their age.

• Check the classification of the films and, if necessary, reclassify the films by a reasoned decision. This reclassification replaces any previous classification and is binding for organisers and the public
• Ensure compliance with and mandatory publication of the classification
• Decide on any discrepancy in classification by the different organisers

Since 2017, ALIA has regularly published the classification of various films.