A Sword Dance Performed before the King and Queen in India

India on Film: 1899 – 1947

2017

As part of the 2017 UK-India Year of Culture, the British Council and British Film Institute share a unique collection of films documenting the sights and culture of a bygone India. Filmed between 1899-1947, and preserved in the BFI National Archive since then, these rare films capture many glimpses of life in India, from dances and markets, to hunts and pageantry.

A Crow Has Been Calling for a Whole Day

2016

　　Originally created as an installation for the third Shenzhen Independent Animation Biennale this film is a gripping diary and travelogue of a trip the filmmaker made through India. She tries to grasp India’s love and thoughts, the sentiments and everyday conditions and the experience of disease and death.

Living Stars

2014 · ★ 6

In this documentary, Argentinians dance to their favourite hits.

Calcutta Topical No. 2

1925

The race is on - for the Viceroy's Cup.

Dancing Through Life: The Dorothy Toy Story

2017 · ★ 10

Swinging and twirling Dorothy Toy Fong the legendary tap dancer is still exciting at 99 years old. Award-winning reporter Rick Quan traces Fong’s journey as a famous duo with Paul Wing and exciting run with her Oriental Showgirl group. Fong’s wondrous spirit dances off the screen and into your heart.

Freedom for the Wolf

2017 · ★ 10

The Real Story of Fake Democracy. Filmed over three years in five countries, FREEDOM FOR THE WOLF is an epic investigation into the new regime of illiberal democracy. From the young students of Hong Kong, to a rapper in post-Arab Spring Tunisia and the viral comedians of Bollywood, we discover how people from every corner of the globe are fighting the same struggle. They are fighting against elected leaders who trample on human rights, minorities, and their political opponents.

Bon Odori

Bon Odori dives into the world of karaoke and the ways this Japanese tradition has taken root and evolved in Brazil. Through an event that brings together young Japanese-Brazilian descendants and participants with no prior connection to Japanese culture, the documentary reveals encounters, memories, and exchanges across generations. Amid touching stories, striking voices, and charismatic personalities, the film crafts a sensitive portrait of belonging, respect, and cultural preservation—celebrating the power of the connections that emerge when differences are embraced.

Ask the Sexpert

2017 · ★ 7.4

A sex columnist gains popularity even while a ban on comprehensive sex education in schools is adopted by approximately a third of India’s states.

A Fishing Party With the Maharajah of Kapurthala, India

1911

The Maharajah of Kapurthala and guests travel on elephants and men catch fish on the River Bias.

From England to India by Air

1917

A state welcome for a Handley Page aircraft arriving in Kolkata.

Duke of Connaught's Indian Tour

1921

The Duke rides an elephant as he ventures on safari in Bengal.

Procession of Elephants at Jaipur; Galta; Raj Mahal

1933

Armoured elephants, sacred monkeys and a camel carriage from Rajasthan.