Empire of Light (2022)

The power of human connection is at the heart of Sam Mendes latest directorial effort. The “1917” director brings audiences a poignant love story set on the south coast of England that takes place against the backdrop of old cinema. “Empire of Light” features a star-studded cast lead by some of Britain’s award-winning greats including Olivia Colman, Colin Firth, and Toby Jones. They’re joined by “Top Boy” breakout Micheal Ward, Tom Brooke (“The Crown”), and Hannah Onslow (“This is Going to Hurt”). The film marks Mendes’ first time directing a film from a script he wrote himself, and the result is nothing but brilliant, with a promising premise the delivers a beautifully made film. This film also sees the acclaimed director reunite with his colleagues from “1917”, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Roger Deakins and editor Lee Smith.

Olivia Colman stars as Hilary, a manager who is struggling with her mental health. She works at the local cinema in the seaside town where she lives, going about her life as it comes. When new employee Stephen (Micheal Ward), a young man wanting to study architecture away from the coast, starts at the cinema, him and Hilary form a bond that quickly spirals into a fervent romance. While their love seems better than ever, Hilary’s declining mental state and the racial abuse Stephen faces every day, begins to come between them which inevitably begins pushing them, and their romance, to a breaking point.

With three Oscar nominations (including one win) under her belt, Olivia Colman gives a performance that sets the beloved actress up for her fourth nomination. Colman’s turn as the struggling cinema manager balances nuance with heart-wrenching emotion and leaves you wanting more after the credits roll. Micheal Ward holds his own alongside his A-list co-stars, the BAFTA-winning actor gives a superb performance, elevated by the mesmerising chemistry he shares with Colman. While he may not be a significant part of the film, Toby Jones gives a thought-provoking turn that ends up being one of the film’s hidden gems. While the premise may not sound the most unique or entertaining, the wait pays off, with powerful performances that make for an enthralling two-hour flick that beautifully tugs on your heart strings.

Roger Deakins once again works his magic behind the camera, “Empire of Light” showcases scenic visuals that make for some of this year’s best. The gorgeous cinematography, combined with the intricate, art deco set design courtesy of Mark Tildesley (“Phantom Thread”) makes the film a feast for the eyes. The cinematography is the perfect accompaniment to the film’s old cinema aesthetic and the stunning cinema the film takes place in. Alexandra Byrne (“Elizabeth: The Golden Age”, “Emma”) provides the film with amazing costumes, with Hilary’s various outfits being the highlights, including a stunning blue gown worn by Olivia Colman at one point in the film.

Sam Mendes latest directorial effort is a moving love story that takes place against a backdrop of old cinema. Lead by standout performances from Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward and Toby Jones, the film is another hit from the Oscar-winning director. The film expertly balances its complex themes, and no part overpowers another, with the stunning sets and costumes working hand in hand with the powerful performances. While “Empire of Light” is a film that oozes Oscar potential, the film may end up drowning in a sea of ensemble pieces, powerful character studies and many more of the smash-hit films 2022 has to offer.