The percentage of women who are cast in British films is now lower than it was over 100 years ago.

According to data released by the BFI, 32% of casts in 1913 were female, compared to just 30% of casts so far this year.

The statistics show that there were more actresses cast in the 51 British films made in 1913 than in the 71 films releases so far in 2017.

Female stereotyping is also highlighted, as 94% of unnamed female characters are credited as prostitutes, nurses and housekeepers.

Dame Judi Dench has been named as the most prolific working British actress, having starred in 41 films during her career.

Despite the fact that the UK is known for its acclaimed female directors such as Andrea Arnold, Clio Barnard and Lynne Ramsay, just 4.5% of British films are directed by women.

The overall percentage of women behind the camera has gradually risen by 34% from 1913-2017, but only 6% of those working in photography and sound are women.

Heather Stewart, BFI Creative Director, said “With the creation of the BFI Filmography, with a complete data set from 1911 to the present day, we now know for the first time ever, exactly how many films have been made, when and by whom.

“At a time when the UK film industry is burgeoning, the BFI Filmography is an invaluable resource for anyone with an interest in film, providing evidence that can help inform policy, the future of the industry and its workforce.”

