A controversial British crime thriller that destroyed the career of its director is to be the subject of a day school at the National Media Museum.

Described by some critics as “trash” on its release in 1960, Peeping Tom destroyed the career of Michael Powell, director of enduring movies such as The Red Shoes and The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp.

Today, the story of stalking, surveillance and homicidal voyeurism is accepted as a masterpiece, ahead of its time.

It has already had several screenings at the museum and will be the subject of Murderous Gaze, a day school on Saturday, January 22, led by film writer and tutor Keith Withall. It will discuss Peeping Tom in relation to the genre of serial killer films and the world of noir.

Film fans can also sign up for a weekly two-hour course at the museum. British Film Noir runs over nine weeks on Wednesdays, from February 9 to April 6, 6.15pm to 8.15pm, also tutored by Mr Withall. The programme includes screenings of the 1947 and 2010 movie versions of Brighton Rock.

A Murderous Gaze is from 10.30am to 4.30pm and costs £17 or £13 concessions. An illustrated talk on Peeping Tom, included in the day school, takes place from 1pm to 1.50pm and costs £8.50 or £7 for concessions. The film will be shown at 2pm.

Another illustrated talk – on Howard Hawks’ 1946 version of The Big Sleep, starring Humphrey Bogart – will be held on Friday, February 11, from 3pm to 4pm, costing £8.50 or £7 for concessions. To book, call 0844 856 3797.

e-mail: jim.greenhalf@telegraphandargus.co.uk