Search the BFI archive

Find out how to view something from the archive for study or research.

Tilda Swinton visits the BFI National Archive in Berkhamsted as part of BFI LUMINOUS 2017

How to start your search

The best place to start is with collections search to see what’s available.

The collection is international in scope, but contemporary collecting is focused on British work across all genres and types of filmmaking.

The BFI National Archive contains a huge collection of

  • film
  • television 
  • still images 
  • posters and design
  • audio recordings
  • books and journals 
  • personal papers

Use the collections search database to find what you’re looking for.

Other ways to access archive material

BFI Filmography

A groundbreaking project which compiles a comprehensive list of UK feature films released to cinemas from the beginning of film history until now.

Find out more

Main image caption: Tilda Swinton photographed at the BFI National Archive in Berkhamsted during her visit as part of the BFI LUMINOUS biennial fundraising Gala in 2017.