Post-British New Wave Genre Directors

Below are some of the best British directors ever. Click on their pictures to discover more about them.

A Brief History of British Cinema in the 1970s and 80s

British cinema in the 1970s was an eclectic industry, with directors like Nicolas Roeg known for his innovative narrative structures and bold visual style, with films like “Don’t Look Now” and “The Man Who Fell to Earth”. On the other hand, Terry Gilliam & Terry Jones, members of the Monty Python comedy troupe, brought a distinctively surreal and satirical edge to cinema. Their work, including “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” and Gilliam’s “Time Bandits”, combined sharp wit with fantastical elements, influencing the genre of comedy.

The 1970s also saw the emergence of directors like John Boorman and Peter Yates, who achieved considerable success in Hollywood. Boorman’s “Deliverance” was a critical and commercial success, known for its intense narrative and strong character development. Peter Yates, with films like “Bullitt” and “Breaking Away”, demonstrated a flair for creating engaging, character-driven stories.

The 1980s witnessed the rise of filmmakers like Adrian Lyne and Alan Parker, who brought a new level of polish and commercial appeal to British cinema. Adrian Lyne became renowned for his exploration of human relationships and psychological themes, as seen in “Flashdance” and “Fatal Attraction”. His films often combined commercial elements with deeper, more introspective narratives. Alan Parker, with a diverse filmography that includes “Midnight Express” and “Pink Floyd – The Wall”, was known for his visually striking and emotionally powerful storytelling.

Michael Winner, another prominent director of this era, was known for his work in action and thriller genres. His collaboration with actor Charles Bronson in films like “Death Wish” and its sequels, though controversial, gained significant popularity. Winner’s films were characterised by their direct approach and often graphic depiction of violence, reflecting the changing tastes of cinema audiences.