Everyone went to the movies on a weekly basis and the studio system fed that eager audience with some of the best westerns, finest thrillers and most delightful romances ever made. As the news of world events grew increasingly ominous, Hollywood created some of the most beguiling escapist entertainments. This illustrated talk explores the reasons for Hollywood’s annus mirabilis. Before John Wayne rides the range in Stagecoach (Saturday 22 February, 11.00), hear some expert analysis on the greatest of years and have your appetite whetted for the remaining titles in 2014’s retrospective.

Free but ticketed, tickets available from GFT box office on the day.