All-time great directors: Billy Wilder

Perfect use of black comedy counterpointing the grim subject matter, as cynical operator William Holden is forced to choose sides in the best prisoner of war film ever made.

Classic tale of cynicism and manipulation featuring reporter Kirk Douglas deliberately hampering the rescue of a trapped mine worker for his own ends. A superb performance and a very clever and insightful script.

All the ingredients of classic noir, including the femme fatale, doomed anti-hero, twisting turning plot and cynical, snappy hard-boiled dialogue.

A comedy masterclass from brilliantly matched double act Lemmon and Curtis in witty transvesticism orientated slapstick fun.

Another cynical classic from Wilder, complete with iconic leads and timeless dialogue. A witty and clever satire on the Hollywood establishment.

Typically cynical and witty black comedy from Billy Wilder and Jack Lemmon, and a great social satire.

Sweetly rmantic comedy featuring Audrey Hepburn at her most appealing, and wonderful support from William Holden and Humphrey Bogart in one of his more sensitive roles. Another charming film from Billy Wilder at his least cynical.

Another likeable Matthau/Lemmon vehicle, but it lacks the resonance of Wilders best efforts.

Disappointing remake of His Girl Friday kept watchable by the comic talents of one of the best double acts in the business.

A mildly amusing old fashioned sex comedy that's far fluffier than much of Wilder's other work. Monroe is memorable though, and it features one of her most famous images.