"The NOT A Review Show!" hosts Bill Thill and Binging Betty go to cinema paradise with the Sam Mendes written and directed "Empire of Light."

A romantic drama set around the "Empire Cinema" in a coastal English town in 1981, Mendes' film is inspired by both personal experience and the enduring magic of the movies. The film stars Olivia Colman and Micheal Ward in a story about human frailties and connection during uncertain times.

"Empire of Light" made its world premiere at the 49th Telluride Film Festival in September 2022 and received several nominations during award season including a Best Actress Golden Globe nomination for Colman and an Academy Award nomination for Best Cinematography for Roger Deakins.

So let's make a stop at the snack counter, take our seats, and find out why "Empire of Light" is Binging Betty's favorite film of 2022.