Empire (magazine)

Empire (magazine)
source
Title	Empire
Frequency	Monthly
Category	Film
Firstdate	July 1989
Company	Bauer Media Group
Country	United Kingdom
Language	English

Empire (magazine). A British film magazine published monthly by Bauer Media Group. First launched in July 1989, it has grown to become one of the world's leading publications dedicated to cinema, known for its comprehensive reviews, exclusive interviews, and iconic cover art. The magazine operates several international editions and is renowned for its annual Empire Awards, which honor achievements in the film industry as voted by its readership.

History

The magazine was founded in 1989 by editor Barry McIlheney and publisher Emap, launching during a boom period for British publishing and the ascendancy of blockbuster film culture. Its initial success was bolstered by the rise of the home video market and a growing public appetite for behind-the-scenes film journalism. In 2008, following the acquisition of Emap's consumer media division, the magazine became part of the Bauer Media Group. Key moments in its history include the launch of its Australian edition in 1997 and the establishment of its influential online presence, which expanded its global reach significantly. The publication has chronicled major industry shifts, from the rise of computer-generated imagery to the advent of streaming media services like Netflix.

Content and features

Each issue typically contains reviews of the latest theatrical releases, from major Hollywood productions to independent and world cinema, alongside detailed previews of upcoming films. Regular features include in-depth interviews with prominent figures such as directors Christopher Nolan and Martin Scorsese, actors like Meryl Streep and Tom Cruise, and cinematographers including Roger Deakins. The magazine is famous for its expansive retrospective articles, deep-dives into film genres, and its "Classic Scene" breakdowns. Other staple sections cover home media releases, film-related news, and opinion pieces from a roster of noted critics. Its visually striking photography and illustrative cover designs, often created in collaboration with major film studios, are a hallmark of the publication.

Special editions and spin-offs

The magazine regularly publishes special collector's editions focusing on specific franchises, such as Star Wars, James Bond, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe. These editions often feature extensive archival material, long-form essays, and exclusive artwork. A significant spin-off is the annual Empire Movie Guide, a comprehensive directory of films. The brand has also expanded into digital and audio realms with a popular podcast and a robust online platform that includes video content. Internationally, licensed editions are published in countries including Australia, Turkey, and Russia, adapting the core format for local audiences while maintaining the brand's signature style.

Awards

The magazine founded the Empire Awards in 1996, a ceremony where winners are voted for entirely by the magazine's readers, distinguishing it from many other industry accolades. Categories have included Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actor, with past winners encompassing films like The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and actors such as Kate Winslet. The awards have been presented at venues including the Grosvenor House Hotel and have been hosted by notable figures from British comedy including Johnny Vaughan. In 2018, the live ceremony was retired, with the awards transitioning to a special issue of the magazine, though reader polls for categories like Best Film remain a central annual feature.

Influence and reception

It is widely regarded as an authoritative and accessible voice in film criticism, credited with helping to shape mainstream film discourse in the United Kingdom and beyond. Its reader-poll awards are seen as a significant barometer of popular audience opinion, often contrasting with the choices of more traditional institutions like the British Academy of Film and Television Arts. The magazine's tone, which balances enthusiastic fan perspective with critical rigor, has been influential on subsequent film journalism and digital media. It has received industry recognition, including awards from the British Society of Magazine Editors, and its writers, such as Kim Newman, are held in high esteem. The publication's ability to secure major Hollywood exclusives has consistently demonstrated its clout within the global film industry.

Editors and staff

The founding editor was Barry McIlheney, who set the magazine's initial tone and direction. He was succeeded by Colin Kennedy and later by Mark Dinning, who served as editor-in-chief for over a decade. Terry Staunton and Helen O'Hara have also held significant editorial positions, contributing to the magazine's content and evolution. Notable long-term contributors include film critics Kim Newman and Chris Hewitt, as well as photographer Rankin, who has produced many of its iconic covers. The staff has included journalists who have moved on to prominent roles in broadcasting at the BBC and other major media outlets, underscoring the magazine's role as a talent incubator within entertainment journalism.

Category:Film magazines Category:Monthly magazines published in the United Kingdom Category:Publications established in 1989