Life Cinematic - Season 1

Oscar-nominated British director Sir Sam Mendes talks to Edith Bowman about the films that have influenced his life and career. His choices range from classics such as Blue Velvet, Taxi Driver and The Godfather II to contemporary masterpieces, Lost In Translation. Sam also provides insights into the making of his most recent film, 1917, and reflects on his early introduction to cinema, as well as his aspirations for the future.

Acclaimed film-maker Edgar Wright, director of Baby Driver as well as Hot Fuzz and Shaun of the Dead, selects clips from the films that have influenced him the most.

British director Sam Taylor-Johnson reveals the films that have influenced her life and career. Her choices range from classics such as One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest to modern blockbusters, including The Talented Mr Ripley, Brokeback Mountain and Claire Denis's French masterpiece, Beau Travail.

Sam also offers insights into the making of her most recent movie, A Million Little Pieces, and reflects on her early introduction to cinema, as well as her experience of moving to Hollywood to live and work.

Sofia Coppola, a leading light of the indie movie scene and an Oscar-winning screenwriter for Lost in Translation, selects clips from the films that have had the most influence on her work and career.

Amma Asante, one of a new wave of black female directors making a name for themselves on the international stage, selects clips from the films that have had the most influence on her work.