4. Transitions (Jun 1985 - Dec 2003)

The legal requirement to register films with the UK Board of Trade ended in 1985 when Parliament repealed the Cinematograph Act of 1927. That was a real tragedy for cinema history in this country, and means we're forced to turn elsewhere from this point forward for information on monthly releases.

In this case, we've (mostly) used the review section of the BFI publications Monthly Film Bulletin and Sight & Sound. The former reviewed most film releases between 1934 and 1991, and when publication ended in 1991, the slack was taken up by its sister publication, and continues to this day.

Though regarded as 'journals of record', this isn't strictly true, since more than a few titles were never reviewed in either of the magazines. These were mostly low budget items, aimed at the 'hoi polloi', and the BFI's notorious preference for Art House material may account for their tardiness. They're more than happy to cover the latest Yugoslav masterpiece (Yak Herding for Bank Managers), but it's 'OK' not to cover Sex Orgy of the Intestine Eaters cuz, like, no one'll ever notice.

Well, we did. And if Sex Orgy of the Intestine Eaters had ever been a real movie (we wish!), it would be right here in this Index, where it belongs. Alongside the likes of Yak Herding for Bank Managers. All cinematic life is welcome here.

We've plugged any gaps as best we can. But if you spot any omissions in this particular section, let us know in the comments section and we'll be more than happy to rectify the error. You'll even get a 'Thank You' in the Introduction.

Now - on with the show!