Empire of Light

Hilary (Olivia Colman) is the duty manager in the Empire Cinema, on the Margate seafront in 1980.  She's effective enough in her job, but passionless about film.  Lives alone, her only intimacy is providing handjobs for her slimy, bullying boss (Colin Firth).  And, it gradually emerges, she has a history of serious mental health issues.

Into her life comes new member of staff Stephen (Micheal Ward), who hopes to be able to go to college to become an architect.  Despite the considerable age difference, they begin an affair that brings some light and excitement into Hilary's humdrum routine.  But this is Thatcher's Britain, where a callous government is effectively saying racism is OK, and Stephen is black.  When trouble comes it affects much more than just the obvious victim.  But tories gotta tory.

The film is beautifully and evocatively shot, with plenty of period detail and a clear love for film.  And in the bigotry of the times, and showing the lack of understanding of mental health at the time, it goes after some worthy targets.  So it's a shame the script can be a bit clunky at times.  Stephen is almost too good to be true.  Hilary's illness is used to manipulate our emotions.  It's always enjoyable, but with a sense that it could be that bit better.

Fortunately it's saved by the performances, and especially from the always brilliant Colman.  She gives Hilary a depth that transcends what's on the page, and makes her ordinariness a virtue.  And for that alone it's worth seeing.