1950-1959

You don't need to understand French to enjoy this hilarious visual comedy, but you do need to pay close attention to what is happening "in the frame" because there no no close-ups to spoon feed you.

An early but brief appearance by Audrey Hepburn, seen here embracing, or being embraced by Alec Guinness gives no clue to the absurd story that is about to unfold. There is not a spot of romance to be seen in this 'heist' gone madly wrong.

Staggeringly good drama, with top performance from Brando, and cinematographer (Boris Kaufman) and director (Elia Kazan)

An influential film, at least technically, with a narrative gimmick that no longer surprises. Was it worth it? ('Rashomon' refers to the city gate under which three characters share the tale of an alleged rape and murder.)

The Seventh Seal in the Book of Revelations marks the approach of the Day of Judgement. For a film about such a gloomy prospect, there is a surprising note of optimism.

Bogart's most psychologically ambiguous role as a down-on-his-luck screenwriter suspected of murdering the girl who has read the book he's going to use to revive his fortunes. Until he meets Gloria Grahame!