London: Late Emperor of Japan

Intense interest in Japan by the West made it a favourite destination for filmmakers from the earliest days of film. This selection of films from 1901 to 1913, newly restored by the BFI National Archive, takes us on a fascinating journey through Meiji Japan.

Upper-class Japanese ladies dress up for an open-air afternoon tea, to appreciate the shortlived cherry blossoms.

This ethnographic film offers a brief overview of the traditional culture of the Ainu, an ethnic minority in Japan.

Acrobats exhibit their physical agility and masterly skills with assorted spinning and balancing feats.

A wild boat ride through the Hozu River’s white-water rapids, set against a beautifully coloured natural background.

In a school gymnastic festival, boys and girls demonstrate their physical rigour through exercise and dance.

Geeky Pavan takes his 'English Rose' on a date to the most authentic Indian restaurant in the city. To his horror she goes off-menu, in Hindi...

Capital scenes thanks to Victorian filmmakers

The Band of the First Life Guards approaches Westminster Bridge during Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee.

A conquering Boer War hero enjoys a rapturous homecoming parade

A sports day gives the young residents of the Foundling Hospital a chance to let off steam

Horse-drawn traffic on one of London's busiest thoroughfares

Discover why Luke Bean of Northumbria University believes everyone should experience Oldboy at least once.

Samantha Arnold of Northumbria University offers fresh insight into why Wings of Desire remains essential viewing.

The acclaimed director discusses his landmark film in this interview from 2005.

Directors Christine Molloy and Joe Lawlor dig deep into their thrilling biopic Baltimore, in discussion with Nadia M Oliva.

Actor Herbert Norville discusses working with the pioneering filmmaker on his groundbreaking 1975 drama, Pressure.

An impassioned discussion on the life, work and legacy of the eminent filmmaker Horace Ové, chaired by Samira Ahmed.