THE DARK KNIGHT has sparked controversy in the U.K. after parents complained its scenes were too violent for young children.

At least 60 people have contacted the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) since the new Batman movie was released.

They insist some scenes are so violent, the film should be given a higher age restriction.

In the U.K., The Dark Knight is a 12A certificate - meaning those aged 12 and over can see it unaccompanied, while younger children can watch it with an adult.

But some parents say the film should have a 15 age limit because some scenes are too graphic.

However, film censors insist the movie is a "top end of 12A" - and that the number of complaints should be compared to the estimated one million cinemagoers who saw the film in its first week.

A BBFC spokeswoman says, "It is a fantasy film about unrealistic characters who also wear body armour and can walk off buildings and fly.

"This is the first film this year to have had any fuss made about its category. Some of those complaints are from people who don't think other people should be taking their children to see it."