In this text for students and general readers, Leach (film, Brock U., Ontario) explores British cinema within its social, political, and cultural contexts. Each chapter focuses on a particular topic, illustrated by close readings of key films from different historical periods. A few of those topics: class and ideology; sexuality and gender; and the relationship between British theater and the film industry. The text is accompanied throughout by b&w movie stills. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)