‘Empire of Light’ Review – A Moving Reminder of the Importance of Connection and Understanding

Synopsis: Set in and around a faded old cinema in an English coastal town in the early 1980s, it follows Hilary (Olivia Colman) a cinema manager struggling with her mental health, and Stephen (Micheal Ward), a new employee who longs to escape this provincial town in which he faces daily adversity. Both Hilary and Stephen find a sense of belonging through their unlikely and tender relationship and come to experience the healing power of music, cinema, and community.

I like to think that a great deal of us, dare I say, the majority of us, strive to be an accepting and inclusive society, however, a few things have to be done in order for that to happen. We have to accept and appreciate our differences. It’s an easy concept, the fact that we’re all different is what makes us the same and we can take solace in that notion. See people, acknowledge them, and be kind.

“No one’s gonna give you the life you want.”

At the end of the day, we all just want to matter and be understood. Directed by Sam Mendes, Empire of Light is a moving reminder of the importance of connection and understanding. What begins as a gentle and sweet explorative journey of two very different individuals in age and culture, quickly becomes a collision of empathy, humanity, and hard realizations. Taking place in the not-so-progressive 1980s, it’s a story that is not unlike the one that would take place in the states. It’s actually a story that I and many others can relate to in certain regards. Whether it’s having to exist in a society whose laws and culture have blatant or undertones of hate towards you, having to medicate daily due to mental health issues that make you feel like a burden, or being someone that never realized or failed to validate the plight of others, there’s a lot to take away.

“That little beam of light, it’s an escape.”

Carried by great cinematography and terrific performances by Olivia Colman and Micheal Ward, this film had the potential to be one of the year’s best. However, it took on way too much and it suffered because of it. Despite some incredibly powerful scenes and tearful moments, the Empire needed a spotlight to focus on exactly what it wanted to be. With its multiple tonal switches and subplots, the marriage of it all couldn’t quite make it out of the chapel. Nevertheless, it doesn’t make this a terrible film by any means, just not a great one. There is just at much light as there is darkness, cinematography that catches the most intimate moments, and a score that captures the times and every emotional beat. As the film will divide audiences, there is no denying some scenes and what the cast presents us with. Negative thoughts aside, I do believe this a film that is worth seeing. It has great production design, well-done hair and makeup, and Colin Firth. Its rewatchability is medium.

 

Pacing & Pop

The film moves at a rather smooth pace, however, its tone switches more than necessary. The result is a bit disjointed and lacks focus. What popped for me was a scene during a protest that really affected me. It was both infuriating and explosive and unfortunately feels like a reflection of our current climate. It’s disheartening and it’s the scene that stands out the most. 

 

Characters & Chemistry

Starring: Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward, Tom Brooke, Tanya Moodie, Hannah Onslow, Crystal Clarke, with Toby Jones, and Colin Firth

It goes without saying, Olivia Colman delivers a fantastic performance. From reserved and reluctant to fully manic, she showcases a range of emotions in a masterful way. Too bad the film didn’t focus on her story more. My favorite performance in the film is Micheal Ward as Stephen. He’s full of life, and charisma, and is a great reflection of being black in any era and how we have to move despite the hate that sometimes invades our lives. Their chemistry was as honest and pure as it gets and shines throughout the film.

Empire of Light premieres in theaters on December 9, 2022. Stay safe and enjoy.

Rated: R Runtime: 1h 59m Director: Sam Mendes Writer: Sam Mendes Producers: Pippa Harris p.g.a., Sam Mendes p.g.a. Executive Producers: Michael Lerman, Julie Pastor Director of Photography: Roger Deakins ASC, BSC