Empire of the Light on HBOMax — Recap
- Mar 7, 2023
"Empire of Light" is a new movie streaming on HBOMax. It tells the story of a woman named Delilah (Olivia Colman) who struggles to make ends meet in 1980s London. The film is by Sam Mendes and also stars Colin Firth and Roger Allam.
Delilah works as a waitress in a local diner and lives in a run-down apartment with her young son. She dreams of a better life for herself and her son. But, her circumstances make it seem like an impossible feat. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she meets a wealthy art dealer named Mark (Colin Firth).
Mark is immediately taken with Delilah and her son. He offers her a job as a caretaker for his mother, who has dementia. Delilah jumps at the chance, seeing it as a way to provide for her son and improve their living situation. However, as she becomes more involved in Mark's life, she realizes that things are not as they seem.
The film is a slow-burn drama that explores themes of class, power, and ambition. Olivia Colman delivers a captivating performance as Delilah. She captures the character's determination and vulnerability with a nuance that is characteristic of her acting style. Colin Firth is also excellent as Mark, portraying the character's complexity and inner turmoil with a subtlety that is both compelling and unnerving.
The movie is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography that captures the gritty, atmospheric feel of 1980s London. The art direction and costume design are also noteworthy. They transport the viewer to a bygone era with authenticity and attention to detail.
As the story unfolds, the tension builds to a satisfying and unexpected conclusion, leaving the viewer with much to think about long after the movie is over. The film is a testament to the power of great storytelling and the importance of character development in creating a compelling narrative.
Overall, "Empire of Light" is a must-watch for fans of slow-burn dramas and character-driven storytelling. Olivia Colman's performance is a standout, and the movie is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it. It is currently streaming on HBOMax, so be sure to check it out for yourself.