Empire of Light

How this film uses it

The Empire Cinema is a grand building that has seen better days, and Hilary has a similar history. The disused upper floor is beautiful and empty, like parts of her life. When she shows it to Stephen, the space says what she cannot.

Where to see it

The upper floor tour: Hilary shows Stephen the cinema's beautiful but disused upper floor, and the two bond.

How this film uses it

The film was shot in Margate on the north coast of Kent, with the Dreamland Margate cinema building remodeled and renamed for the production. The tired seaside setting, with its beach and rooftops, shapes the mood of the story.

Where to see it

The New Year's Eve fireworks: Hilary and Stephen watch fireworks from the cinema roof, and she impulsively kisses him.

How this film uses it

Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross composed the score, which gives the film its own sound. Their music is a distinctive voice, and it also sits beside songs from the era played on a record player, such as Bob Dylan, Cat Stevens and Joni Mitchell.

Where to see it

The beach day: Hilary and Stephen go to the beach, where Stephen tells her about his first love, and Hilary angrily destroys a sand castle they had been building.

How this film uses it

The Empire gives Hilary and her co-workers a place to belong. Stephen tells her to see a film in the cinema, which she has never done, and the staff look after one another through hard times. The film suggests that sitting in the dark together can heal.

Where to see it

The film request: After Stephen's recovery, Hilary asks the projectionist Norman to play any movie for her, and he picks Being There.

How this film uses it

The film shows real hardship, including Hilary's mental illness and the racism Stephen faces from skinheads and customers. It still lets love and community matter. The staff members, from the projectionist Norman to Stephen's mother, show kindness that carries them through.

Where to see it

The hospital visit: After Stephen is assaulted by skinheads, Hilary accompanies him to the hospital and meets his mother Delia.