2/2/23 - Empire of Light (2022) - 5/10

This was a fairly limp and generally predictable drama around a small and ailing theater during the 80s. While interested in poking at racial discrimination, fascistic Thatcherism bubbling up, and the tribulations of a misunderstood and damaged woman, when it is all said and done it felt very inert and unassuming.

I watched it because of its cinematography nomination, but despite some workmanlike quality shots from Deakins, I was surprised by the lack of dynamism and the spectacular. Visually I was hoping for some dazzlement, because other than a few brief pops of the ever-loved Oliva Colman, it just doesn’t seize the moment or me. It’s all steak, no sizzle.