Dreamland Shines Brightly!
06 January 2023
Monday 9th January 2023 is firmly etched in our diaries and calendars as the date Academy Award ® winning director and writer, Sam Mendes’ film, Empire of Light is released in the UK – and we are on the edge of our seats!
Starring Olivia Colman, Micheal Ward and Colin Firth, Empire of Light sees our very own Dreamland buildings shining brightly as they take centre stage in this poignant story of love, life and the power of human connection.
Dreamland’s striking architecture is featured heavily throughout the film. From its unmistakeable art deco fin to the retro Roller Disco and vintage rides, the cinematography showcases what a special and iconic place Dreamland truly is.
Already released in the US, the film is swiftly gaining accolades with Olivia Colman in the running for a Golden Globe as Best Actress, whilst Roger Deakins is a Critics’ Choice Awards nominee for Best Cinematography.
Described by Vanity Fair as ‘An achingly lovely film – the best Mendes has yet made’ the story follows the developing friendship and love affair between Hilary (Olivia Colman) a cinema manager struggling with her mental health and Stephen (Micheal Ward), a new employee facing adversity and racial tension in 1980’s Britain.
Beautifully filmed, Dreamland is a beacon bringing the characters together throughout the storyline, with backdrops of stunning Margate seascapes. If, like us, you fancy immersing yourself in some movie magic then check out our top spots that will make you feel like you are part of the film…..
Take in the stunning architecture and marvel at the art deco fin whilst trying to fit the entire frontage into the perfect selfie!
EMPIRE OF LIGHT © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Take in the far-reaching sea views and enjoy the wide expanse of the sky above as you skim stones across the tidal pool, just as Stephen and Hilary did in the film. Then, stop for a cup of tea in Marina Café with its vintage feel blue and white tiles.
EMPIRE OF LIGHT © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
For even more seascape, grab yourself a table at the Cinque Ports pub and treat yourself to some lunch, whilst soaking up the vibes and watching the world go past on the promenade, right before your eyes.
EMPIRE OF LIGHT © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Explore the old town with its quirky shops, excellent eateries, and bars (look out for Wildes restaurant, the backdrop to a tense sense involving Hilary, Colin Firth’s character – Donald and his wife, played by Sara Stewart.)
Recreate the roller rink scene, which sees Stephen, Hilary and the Empire Team slide and skate (some better than others) across the floor, at the retro Roller Disco located inside Dreamland.
EMPIRE OF LIGHT © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
There’s loads of fun to be had, with rides a plenty and amusements too. Try out the vintage Whirl A Round, which can be seen in the background of a scene with Hilary and Stephen, before jumping on the jewel in our crown, The Scenic Railway. Oh, don’t forget the candy floss!
EMPIRE OF LIGHT © 2022 20TH CENTURY STUDIOS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
