Films for Different Age-Groups

169. In Britain, films are classified according to their suitability for children or adults by the BRITISH BOARD OF FILM SENSORS, which gives each film a certain certificate.

a U film

This is one with a U certificate, which means that it is considered for all age groups. U probably stands for universal.

an A film

This has an A certificate, which means that it is considered suitable mainnly for adults. However, children may be admitted if accompanied by an adult.

an X film

An X certificate means that the film is considered to be definitely unsuitable for children (under 18), and they are not admitted, even with an adult. The significance of the letter X is that of something exceptional, forbidden.

The letters U, A or X appear in brackets after the name of the film.

e.g. OLIVER (U)

In addition to the above types of certificate, the following were introduced later:

AA, called double A

a double A certificate/film

This denotes a film not for children under 14, even if accompanied by an adult.

XX, called double X

a double X certificate/film

This is used in America to denote a film not for young people under 21.

Readers should bear in mind that most English people have only a very general idea of this system of certificates except for teenagers who are affected by the restrictions. In addition it is practically impossible to enforce these restrictions strictly, since the cashier who sells tickets has no means of checking a person's age, and can therefore only judge by appearances.

Types of Cinema

170. The following expressions are used to denote different types of cinema:

city cinema

central cinema

West End cinema

a cinema in the West End of London, that is the western part of the centre, where most of the central London cinemas are concentrated (See also unit 90.)

suburban cinema

This can be used of a cinema outside the centre in Soviet towns. (See unit 328.) In Britain, however, it is practically obsolete, since nearly all suburban cinemas have closed as a result of the decline in audience numbers.

local cinema

the cinema nearest one's home

e.g. I usually wait till films come round to my local cinema.

Names of Cinemas

171. Names of cinemas take the definite article.

e.g. TheOdeon.

The Majestic.

The definite article should be used with the names of Soviet cinemas.

e.g. The Coliseum.

The Zenith.

The Saturn.

If there is an English version of the name, as above, it should be used. Otherwise the name should be transliterated, not translated.

e.g. The Velikan (NOT The Giant)

Inside the Cinema

172. The following words are used as in the theatre (see units 115-116): foyer, box office, auditorium.

A cinema has only stalls, and sometimes a balcony. Therefore the expressions: at the front/back/side, in the centre/middle are more often used than in the theatre, and row.

e.g. We were sitting in the front/first row.

Behind the auditorium is the projection room, from which the film is projected onto the screen. The person who operates the projector is called the projectionist (киномеханик).