Expanding Hyde & Seek: welcoming 12A films to our Young Audiences Programme

Since our recent renovation, one of my key goals has been to grow and enrich our offer for our youngest film fans. We've introduced more screenings and broadened the range of films available, making it easier than ever for fans of all ages to enjoy cinema together.

Until now, our Hyde & Seek programme has focused exclusively on U and PG-rated films to ensure accessibility and appropriateness. However, we've often found ourselves frustrated when exciting, child-friendly titles are classified as 12A, making them feel just out of reach.

It’s time for that to change:

This shift has been partly inspired by my own (nearly) 8-year-old at home, who is currently deep in the throes of Star Wars fever. Watching him enjoy the saga in his Star Wars pyjamas, lightsaber in hand, has been a joyful milestone for me as a film lover. But then we hit a snag: Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith is rated 12A.

By this point, he was fully invested, he’d read the books, played the games, and could recite the plot in detail. Was I really going to let a bit of moderate fantasy violence stand in the way of his growing passion for film?

Although a 12A indicates a film is suitable and aimed at older children, it’s important to remember that a 12A rating doesn’t prohibit children under 12 from watching a film, it simply means they must be accompanied by an adult who can judge whether the content is suitable. Children mature at different rates, and what’s appropriate for one may not be for another. That’s why the decision is best left to the adults who know them best.

I still remember my own first cinema experience at age 7: Jurassic Park, rated PG at the time. I was terrified and watched most of it through my fingers. Fast forward to sharing it with my son, he laughed throughout, both at the dinosaurs and at my childhood fear.  Jurassic Park has since been reclassified as a 12A. Was I scared at 7? Absolutely. Did I love it? Without a doubt.

That’s why we’re expanding Hyde & Seek to include selected 12A films, opening the door to even more incredible films, both classic and contemporary.

If you're wondering whether a 12A film is right for your child, here are a few helpful tips:

• Check the BBFC Website: The British Board of Film Classification provides detailed content breakdowns for each film, helping you make informed choices.
• Explore Common Sense Media: This independent site offers age-based recommendations and reviews from other parents and guardians.
• Watch the trailer together: Trailers can give a good sense of tone and content—see how your child reacts.
• Talk about the film: Share plot points, themes, and characters in advance to help your child feel prepared.
• Trust your instincts: You know your child best. If it feels right, it probably is.
• Try it out: Many Hyde & Seek screenings are Pay What You Can, making it easy to give a film a go. You can always leave early or take a break if needed.
• Hide behind the popcorn! In the absence of your sofa, a big tub of popcorn makes a great shield for any jump scares!

You can explore our Hyde & Seek programme here.