A three-member panel of the Classification Review Board has unanimously determined that the film, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, is classified PG (Parental Guidance) with the consumer advice ‘Fantasy themes and infrequent mild coarse language. Some scenes may scare young children’.

In the Classification Review Board’s opinion, Ghostbusters: Afterlife warrants a PG classification because the themes and violence do not exceed a mild impact level and are justified by the context of the film’s narrative. 

The film engages young children to bust the ghosts and has a focus on science and humour.

The overall impact of the classifiable elements in the film was no higher than mild. 

Films classified PG may contain material which some children find confusing or upsetting, and may require the guidance of parents or guardians. For this reason, PG films are not recommended for viewing by persons under 15 without guidance from parents or guardians.  Consumer advice is additional information about the main content of a film which is intended to help consumers decide if they want to view this type of material.

The Review Board convened today in response to an application from the original applicant, Sony Pictures Releasing P/L, to review the decision made by the Classification Board on 11 November 2021 to classify the film, Ghostbusters: Afterlife, M with consumer advice of ‘Fantasy themes and violence’.

In reviewing the classification, the Review Board worked within the framework of the National Classification Scheme, applying the provisions of the Classification (Publications, Films and Computer Games) Act 1995, the National Classification Code and the Guidelines for the Classification of Films 2012. This is the same framework used by the Classification Board.

The Review Board is an independent merits review body. It makes a fresh classification decision upon receipt of an application for review. This Review Board decision takes the place of the original decision made by the Classification Board.

The Review Board’s reasons for this decision will appear on the Classification website when finalised.

Telephone: 02 6271 1000

Statement authorised by Convenor, Classification Review Board