Imagine, if you will, finding yourself in the film industry’s equivalent of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory. At every corner is a world-renowned director, only too delighted to divulge behind the scenes tales. The surrounding walls are tastefully decorated with plasma screens, displaying cult classics in all their remastered glory. In every direction you turn there is something special that reveals the vast world of cinema. This is what Empire Live in London promises – to be the makings of a cinephile’s wonderland.
Keeping in line with its magazine namesake, Empire Live has constructed a schedule designed to appeal equally to Marvel maniacs, art house gurus and blockbuster fiends alike. Empire is making the transition from its glossy pages to the plush surroundings of London’s 02 Arena, making the venue a dedicated cinehub for the weekend of September 23rd to 25th. In a convention-style event along the lines of San Diego’s Comic Con, it seems any voracious appetite for film will be more than satisfied as Empire takes over London.
Thus far a host of events have been announced including live podcasts, exclusive screenings and intimate interviews. But the details of many more are yet to be disclosed. With Empire, there’s always a trump card up their sleeve.
Adding to the bill will be a special film preview of Louis Theroux’s highly anticipated Scientology documentary, not set for release until October
Kicking off the weekend’s offering will be a series of classic screenings. Premium Blu-Ray label, Criterion Collection comes in the form of three exclusive screenings, one of which is 1969’s Easy Rider. Emerging from the dust cloud of 1953’s The Wild One, this classic overtook its precursor, quickly becoming the quintessential biker road trip movie. Fonda and Hopper are reckless comrades, carving up Middle America’s landscape with their Harley Hydra-Glide’s in search of some old-fashioned non-conformity. For good measure, Jack Nicholson appears, lending his all too familiar sinister smirk and prowl to this 1969 hit.
Rob Reiner’s 1986 classic, Stand By Me may turn thirty this year, but the film, with its four youngsters, the harrowing domestic tales they recounted, the punches they threw and the slagging they endured, is timeless. It strikes gold with its outstanding portrayal of the electric cohesiveness of a group of friends. With Richard Dreyfus’s squeaky, iconic narration throughout, at times it feels like his voice emerged directly from the pages of Stephen King’s novel. Empire’s 30th birthday celebration is aptly positioned to appreciate such a poignant, point-in-time movie that, thankfully, will never grow old.
With the passing of David Bowie this year, it feels only apt to incorporate such a treasured icon that contributed his talent not only to music, but to the world of film. Bowie’s regal performance as the Goblin King in 1988’s Labyrinth is mesmerizing, demonstrating his unyielding adaptability and inimitable presence. Jim Henson’s goblins and ghouls serve as the perfect alternative to a supporting cast and such is a testament to the The Muppets creator’s talent. Empire celebrates Henson’s classic with a special Q&A with Labyrinth’s designers and puppeteers, and Brian and Wendy Froud will also discuss their skills and their time working with both Henson and Bowie.
For the indie fans and art house gurus, Empire has laid on a special screening of Richard Linklater’s Everybody Wants Some!!. Widely described as the spiritual sequel to Dazed & Confused, this college venture is promised to have just as much rugged charm as it’s predecessor. Of all director’s, Linklater is perhaps one of the select few that are modestly understated and wholly unfazed by his success. Spanning a nearly thirty year career, he has successfully managed to churn out one indie hit after another. Empire’s special screening of Everybody Wants Some!! with a specifically recorded introduction by Linklater himself should prevail as one of the leading attractions of the weekend.
Empire’s award-winning podcast will also present live, and the magazine team
Ridley Scott’s Oscar Nominated thriller, The Martian will also be showcased, but this time granting fans an exclusive opportunity to enjoy a previously unseen version. From the breathtaking scenery of the Mars craters to Matt Damon’s cynical botanist humour throughout, a space will be highly sought after.
Adding to the bill will be a special film preview of Louis Theroux’s highly anticipated Scientology documentary, not set for release until October. Theroux’s inclination to retain both a placid demeanour and determined rigour during his investigative documentaries will be required now more than ever to infiltrate Ron L Hubbard’s notoriously clandestine religion.
Following in the trail of special screenings, a preview of buddy-cop thriller War on Everyone, starring Alexander Skarsgård, will be displayed. Skarsgård has since discarded his Tarzan roar and shirked off his jungle attire to tend to the helm of the new War On Everyone, directed by John Michael McDonagh.
For those looking for something more nostalgic, a special script read of the 1996 hit, Trainspotting will be performed by up-and-coming actors. In association with Film4, a host of fresh faces will be taking on the classic that launched numerous careers and which “defined the Britpop era.”
Empire’s award-winning podcast will also present live, and the magazine team will host a party in the dedicated Empire Hub each night, turning their hand at games, quizzes and even bowling.
From curated film quizzes to exclusive preview screenings to Q&A’s with industry insiders, Empire Live offers unique events for regardless of your ticket package, which are arranged on a tier system, you choose.
Empire Live runs from September 23rd to 25th in London’s 02 Arena
