British Board of Film Classification

It is impossible to predict what might upset any particular child. But a ‘U’ film should be suitable for audiences aged four years and over. ‘U’ films should be set within a positive moral framework and should offer reassuring counterbalances to any violence, threat or horror.

If a work is particularly suitable for a pre-school child to view alone, this will be indicated in the Consumer Advice.

General viewing, but some scenes may be unsuitable for young children.

Unaccompanied children of any age may watch. A ‘PG’ film should not disturb a child aged around eight or older. However, parents are advised to consider whether the content may upset younger or more sensitive children.

Exactly the same criteria are used to classify works at ‘12A’ and ‘12’. These categories are awarded where the material is suitable, in general, only for those aged 12 and over. Works classified at these categories may upset children under 12 or contain material which many parents will find unsuitable for them.

The ‘12A’ category exists only for cinema films. No one younger than 12 may see a ‘12A’ film in a cinema unless accompanied by an adult, and films classified ‘12A’ are not recommended for a child below 12. An adult may take a younger child if, in their judgement, the film is suitable for that particular child. In such circumstances, responsibility for allowing a child under 12 to view lies with the accompanying adult.

No-one younger than 15 may see a ‘15’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 15 may rent or buy a ‘15’ rated video work.

No-one younger than 18 may see an ‘18’ film in a cinema. No-one younger than 18 may rent or buy an ‘18’ rated video work.

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’ videos may not be supplied by mail order.

How does “Nolan” convey ‘Memento’ as a psychological thriller?

Nolan conveys ‘Memento’ as a psychological thriller by using a wide variety of methods. The opening scene lures the viewers into a sense of confusion through the techniques Nolan uses to create mystery and build the tension. The films order is non-linear due to it jumping from one scene to another. The opening scene starts through a Polaroid picture which fades mirroring the memory of the protagonist ‘Leonard’. The title appears bold which makes us think is it trying to make a statement? We also see blood through a close-up shot which could signify death. 

There are two main characters in Memento, Teddy and Lenny. Lenny is the protagonist as he is the leading character and also he comes across as a hero as he is seeking justice. He is very independent and we get the impression he is unable to lead a normal life with society as of his condition.  Teddy comes across as a very orthodox bad guy as he seems very relaxed and calm about committing a serious crime. He seems like a positive and nice character but then we later discover he is corrupt.

The soundtrack is non-diegetic which creates a dark and gloomy effect which adds to the psychological thriller genre perfectly. The orchestral instruments create a real sense of tension as it builds up to the point of action creating as much tension as possible. There is also a drone in the background which creates tension but it could relate to the protagonists paranoia. All the sounds stand out for effect, it could be used to emphasise that he’s killed someone.