Empire of Light

In 1980, Hilary Small works diligently as a duty manager at the Empire Cinema in Margate, England. Despite her commitment to the job, she struggles with bipolar disorder and navigates her complex personal life alone, relying on medication prescribed by her GP.

The dynamic at the cinema changes when Stephen, a charming Black British newcomer, arrives. He quickly captivates Hilary's attention and they form an immediate connection as he moves in with his devoted mother, Delia.

As Hilary and Stephen grow closer, she introduces him to the cinema's neglected upper floor, a hidden gem filled with charm and allure. Their bond deepens as they share moments in this magical space, leading to an emotional attachment.

During a New Year's Eve celebration, Hilary and Stephen share a spontaneous kiss amid the fireworks. This moment sparks a passionate sexual relationship that transforms both of their lives and leads Hilary to make significant changes.

In her newfound happiness with Stephen, Hilary decides to stop taking her medication and cuts ties with her affair with Donald, her boss. This decision marks a pivotal moment in her journey, filled with both joy and impending challenges.

As their relationship develops, Hilary witnesses the harsh realities of life through Stephen's experiences with racism and prejudice. His confrontations with skinheads shake her understanding of the world and deepen her emotional connection with him.

Stephen opens up to Hilary about his first love, Ruby, who is also connected to his mother Delia through her nursing career. When pressed to share her past, Hilary's emotions overflow, leading to an intense moment as she destroys a sandcastle they built.

Neil, a colleague, expresses concern to Stephen about the potential dangers of his relationship with Hilary, particularly due to her mental health issues. This warning foreshadows future complications in their romance.

Amidst the chaos of the regional premiere of *Chariots of Fire*, Hilary delivers a chaotic speech that inadvertently exposes her affair with Donald. This public revelation leads to an emotional breakdown and intensifies her mental health struggles.

After Hilary's mental state deteriorates, mental health authorities arrive at her flat to take her for reevaluation. This intervention highlights the severity of her condition and sets into motion her journey towards recovery.

As life at the cinema returns to normal, Stephen trains with Norman as the projectionist. He encounters Ruby, reigniting old feelings, while Hilary is discharged from the hospital and is eager to return to the cinema.

During Hilary's welcome-back party at the cinema, tensions rise when skinheads protest outside, leading to a violent altercation involving Stephen. This incident pulls Hilary back into a tumultuous experience, reminding her of the dangers that linger.

Following the assault, Hilary accompanies Stephen to the hospital, where she meets his mother, Delia. In this vulnerable setting, Hilary hears how much Stephen cherishes her, which rekindles her hopes for their relationship.

As Stephen prepares to leave for college, he reflects on his time with Hilary during a farewell dinner with Ruby and his mother. Their final meeting in the park becomes a poignant moment where Hilary gifts him a book, symbolizing their connection.

As Stephen boards the train, he discovers a passage from *High Windows* by Philip Larkin in the book Hilary gave him. This moment encapsulates their bittersweet relationship, leaving both with memories that will linger long after they've parted.