Anybody who has attended university will know about reading lists. For first timers it can seem daunting. Before you start your classes the tutors send a list of recommended reading as an introduction to learning for the upcoming year of tuition. But when attending film school there’s another list attached – recommended viewing. Here are ten must-see movies before heading off to film school.

One of my favourite directors of all time sadly passed away yesterday at the age of 86. Sidney Lumet was a filmmaker whose genius extended to all facets of the filmmaking process. Across a career that spanned over half a century he made enough classic films for ten lifetimes, not just one. His most famous works include Dog Day Afternoon, The Verdict, Network, and Serpico. Most recently the director made the well-received Before The Devil Knows You’re Dead, which turns out to be his final feature film.

Just 24 hours to tell a story. Not easy. However, these ten films are perfect examples of how to construct a film narrative that lasts just one day.

The allure of the single location film
Films set in a single location (or predominantly in a single location) have always fascinated me. Perhaps it’s their theatre roots, as many single-location films derive from the work of playwrights. The consequence of that is strong characterisation, an emphasis on good acting, and tight control of plot that usually takes place over a few hours.
Another reason I am a fan of single location (and indeed single day films or those set over a short prescribed period of time) derives from my distaste …