Watch Secrets of Cinema

In this special on disaster film genre, Mark analyzes the history of the genre and the themes, techniques and theatrics used by some of the best and most interesting disaster movies of all time.

Mark Kermode explores the sorts of films that have won Academy Awards time and time again. Is it the subject matter or its treatment that is the key to beating your rivals?

Mark Kermode unwraps a glittering selection of Christmas cinematic treats, from much-loved classics to hidden gems, from Hollywood blockbusters to international films.

Mark analyzes both cult and classic horror films to show what makes a good horror film so effective and why this genre specifically seems to be so appealing to audiences across the world.

Mark explores the most visionary of all genres - science fiction, and shows how film-makers have risen to the challenge of making the unbelievable believable. Always at the forefront of cinema technology, science fiction films have used cutting-edge visual effects to transport us to other worlds or into the far future. But as Mark shows, it's not just about the effects.

Mark explores the genre that captures the joy and pain of growing up - the coming-of-age movie. It is the most universal of all genres, the one we can all relate to from our own experience, yet it can also be the most autobiographical and personal.

An analysis of the various components of successful heist movies, starting with The Asphalt Jungle and examining examples up to the present day.

An analysis of what makes for a successful romcom with illustrations from some of the best examples of romcoms over the decades.