The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word DIRECTS
I've seen this crossword clue in The Daily Telegraph
D
I
R
E
C
T
S
More clues leading to the result DIRECTS
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "Controls film" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case controls film = directs.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DIRECTS mean?
DIRECTS verb- To manage, control, steer.
- To aim (something) at (something else).
- To point out or show to (somebody) the right course or way; to guide, as by pointing out the way.
- To point out to with authority; to instruct as a superior; to order.
- To put a direction or address upon; to mark with the name and residence of the person to whom anything is sent.