Acclaimed British filmmaker Mike Leigh compiles his Top 10 films and includes some lesser-known titles than many of his contemporaries.

His favourite film of all time is the Ermanno Olmi-directed “The Tree of Wooden Clogs” (L’Albero degli zoccoli). Like Leigh’s films, which are often controversial and provocative, “The Tree of Wooden Clogs” concerns itself with class and religion, focusing on Italian peasant life in the late 19th century. It’s a difficult film to watch, and a film which is likely to alienate many viewers, especially with its graphic depiction of real life (including the gutting of a partially living pig) and lack of formal narrative. It’s also a long movie, clocking in at over three hours. Still, even though it is an acquired taste, it is a film worth seeing at least once.

Of Leigh’s more recognised choices “The 400 Blows” and “Some Like It Hot” come as no small surprise. However, Woody Allen’s “Radio Days”, appearing on Leigh’s list at number 8, is an interesting choice since most critics, fans, and filmmakers alike, opt for “Annie Hall” or “Manhattan” as their favourite Woody Allen film.

Film director Mike Leigh’s Top 10 Films

1. The Tree of Wooden Clogs
2. Tokyo Story
3. I Am Cuba
4. The 400 Blows
5. The Death of Mr Lazarescu
6. Songs From The Second Floor
7. Some Like It Hot
8. Radio Days
9. Seven Chances
10. How A Mosquito Operates