Film censors ban under-12s from theme park’s subterranean scare
The new Nemesis Sub-Terra at Alton Towers Resort, which exists underground and is completely in the dark, has been given a 12A age rating in a bid to protect younger visitors from its terrifying effects.
For the first time in history, the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) has age-rated something other than a film or video game.
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Hide AdMurray Perkins, senior examiner at the BBFC said that after experiencing the ride first-hand and in line with experience and public opinion, examiners decided to give the Nemesis Sub-Terra the age rating.
“The BBFC’s guidelines at 12A/12 allow moderate physical and psychological threat, provided that the disturbing sequences are not frequent or sustained,” he said.
“Nemesis Sub-Terra contains some intense moments, in some respects comparable with scary scenes which may be experienced in horror or science fiction films at 12A/12.
“But while some people will no doubt find this a frightening experience, the personnel monitoring the site are soon on hand to guide the public to safety.”
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Hide AdTAlton Towers Resort conducted research during the development which revealed 75 per cent of Brits have a phobia of being trapped underground and as many as one in five adults are still scared of the dark.
Nemesis Sub-Terra plays heavily on both of these fears and is based around the back-story of the original Nemesis attraction, launched in 1994.
It takes guests into a restricted facility deep underground into a system of hidden caves. There is a “chicken exit” within the attraction – for people who cannot cope with the rest of it.
Katherine Duckworth, from Alton Towers Resort, said the classification advice from the BBFC was important.
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Hide Ad“We are aware the enforcements that will now be implemented will mean that many of our younger visitors are unable to experience Nemesis Sub-Terra, which we are obviously concerned about,” she said. “However, the Alton Towers Resort prides itself on offering a variety of rides for all ages and we hope that those under the age of 12 will continue to enjoy our other attractions.”