Bill Mason

Power to Stop

The majority of railway vehicles are fitted with cast iron brake blocks which, although relatively cheap to produce, wear rapidly in service and need frequent replacement. The film shows how an investigation into some of the problems associated with these blocks led to the development of a new type with a higher phosphorus content which gives better performance and has a longer life.

The Vintage Years

A BAFTA award nominated documentary looking at the history of the motor car in the 1920s. Part of the six-part "History of the Motor Car Series"

Freight and a City

The City of Sheffield is renewing itself, but until recently Sheffield's railway network exemplified the confusion and inefficiency created by competitive railway expansion in Victorian times. Now British Railways has swept away the small depots and the conflicting lines, and has centralised its goods operations in a new Freight Terminal, a Diesel Maintenance Depot, and one of the most modern Marshalling Yards in Europe, thus providing freight services fit for Sheffield's needs.

Groundwork for Progress

Part of BFI collection "Running a Railway."

Steel Town

Directed by Bill Mason.

Mille Miglia

A BAFTA award nominated documentary following the famous Italian motor race from April 26th, 1953.

The Comet

A documentary demonstrating the De Havilland "Comet 1" jet airliner with it's four 'ghost' engines.

The Valiant

A documentary featuring the Vickers "Valiant" aircraft in flight and on the ground.

The Heroic Days

A BAFTA award nominated documentary depicting the history of motor racing between 1902 and 1914.

The Heroic Days

A BAFTA award nominated documentary depicting the history of motor racing between 1902 and 1914.

Farnborough 1951

Highlights from the 6th Farnborough Airshow in 1951.

Grand Prix

Highlights from the 1949 British Formula One Grand Prix at Silverstone.