A person's library, especially if it contained a well-thumbed copy of Ulysses and the entire works of Shakespeare, was once an indication of intellect.

But now watching The Matrix and being able to quote Breaking Bad's best bits is seemingly the new measure of refinement.

A poll of 2,000 Britons has revealed the 30 films and TV shows you must have watched to be considered cultured.

The National Film and Television School (NFTS), a training ground for creative talent across film, television and games, found 26 per cent of people believe being well-versed in movies indicates taste and intelligence as much as strong literary knowledge.

The definitive list includes The Godfather, The Matrix and Game of Thrones (all 31 per cent), followed by Peaky Blinders and Pulp Fiction (both 29 per cent). 

Other essentials include Breaking Bad (26 per cent), The Shining (25 per cent), Trainspotting, The Walking Dead, the BBC's 1995 Pride and Prejudice and Line of Duty (all 24 per cent). 

Screen knowledge is also seen as a social asset. Almost half (44 per cent) agreed that discussing iconic films and shows is useful when socialising, while 39 per cent say cinema and television fuel conversations and online debate.

More than a third (37 per cent) regularly discuss what they are watching with friends and family.

Three in 10 share viral film or television moments online or in group chats, while 26 per cent admit experiencing FOMO (fear of missing out) when they have not watched the title everyone else is discussing.

The NFTS said: 'These findings highlight just how central film and television have become to modern cultural life. 

'For many people, shared screen experiences now play the same role that literature has traditionally played, providing common reference points, sparking debate and helping us understand the world around us.

'It's encouraging to see such a strong public appreciation for great film and television, but it's equally important that talented people from all backgrounds feel they can play a role in creating the stories of the future.'

The findings suggest classic novels are sometimes taking a back seat to prestige television and acclaimed cinema, with 41 per cent saying they would choose a film or TV adaptation rather than read the original book.

However, the jury remains out over which accolade matters more. More than a third (35 per cent) would prefer to be considered well-read, compared with 31 per cent who would rather be seen as well-watched. 

A further 20 per cent want to be regarded as both.

Signs of a well-watched person include constantly quoting favourite lines and rewatching films to spot hidden details (both 26 per cent), memorising obscure dialogue and referencing it in everyday conversation, and having multiple streaming platforms (both 22 per cent).

Being unable to tolerate people talking in the cinema is another sign, according to 21 per cent.

Younger generations are leading the shift towards visual media, with 49 per cent of Gen Z saying they would rather watch a film than read.

By contrast, 30 per cent of over-60s would prefer to bury their head in a book.

To be considered well-read, Britons believe people should have read To Kill a Mockingbird (34 per cent), Pride and Prejudice (32 per cent), 1984 (31 per cent) and Great Expectations (29 per cent).

Bookworms spend an average of 58 minutes reading each day, while film and television fans watch up to three hours of screen content.

The research also found 26 per cent would love to work in film or television, although many see such a career as unrealistic.

Among those interested, the biggest barriers are lacking industry connections (43 per cent), difficulty gaining relevant experience (39 per cent) and limited access to professional networks (34 per cent).