Set in an English coastal town during the early 1980s, the story revolves around a run-down cinema called the Empire, serving as the emotional and physical backdrop for the unfolding narrative. At the heart of the tale is Hilary, the cinema's duty manager, whose life is marked by routine and loneliness. Struggling with her mental health, she finds solace in the familiar rhythms of her job, although she deals with personal turmoil and the oppressive attitudes of her boss, Mr. Ellis. The cinema itself, once grand and vibrant, now stands faded and neglected, a bittersweet echo of its past glory. Despite its decline, it draws a small community of locals who seek distraction from their everyday lives.

Hilary’s monotonous existence takes a turn when Stephen, a young and charismatic ticket taker, joins the theater’s staff. As he navigates the challenges of racism in the conservative town, Stephen forges a deep connection with Hilary. Their friendship gradually blossoms into something more amidst the changing social landscape and mounting tensions in their personal lives. Together, they explore the power of movies to illuminate and transcend their circumstances. However, underlying conflicts and internal struggles loom large, casting shadows over their growing relationship. As waves of change ripple through their world, they find themselves confronting deep-seated issues that force them to reckon with their past choices and consider their uncertain futures.