In 1999 the British Film Institute surveyed 1000 people from the world of British film and television to produce the BFI 100 list of the greatest British films of the 20th century. Voters were asked to choose up to 100 films that were 'culturally British'. Some of the selected films were wholly or partly produced by non-UK companies, or made with input from film makers born overseas, but were regarded by voters as having significant British involvement.
The 1960s came out as the most popular decade, with 26 films, and 1949, 1963 and 1971 as the most popular years, with four films each. The earliest film chosen was from 1935 (The 39 Steps), with only two other 1930s films featuring in the list. After 1935, the only years not represented are 1936–1937, 1940–1941, 1950, 1956, 1972, and 1974–78.
- The most popular single director was David Lean, with seven films in the list. Michael Powell had five films, four of which were collaborations with Emeric Pressburger. Powell and Pressburger ("The Archers") and John Schlesinger had four films each while Alexander Mackendrick and Tony Richardson each had three. Seven of the films were produced by Ealing Studios during the years 1949-1955.
- The most represented actor was Alec Guinness, starring in nine films on the list, though three appearances were in supporting roles. The most represented living actor is Michael Caine, starring in seven films.
- The most represented actress is Julie Christie, starring in six films on the list.