Empire Magazine: A History of the UK's Leading Film Publication
For decades, Empire has served as a cornerstone of cinema journalism in the United Kingdom. Born from a desire to blend critical analysis with a passion for entertainment, the magazine established itself as a must-read for movie enthusiasts by treating cinema as both a legitimate art form and a source of pure enjoyment.
The Origins of Empire
The concept for Empire was conceived by David Hepworth of Emap, the publisher responsible for the popular music magazines Q and Smash Hits. Hepworth envisioned a film-centric publication that mirrored the energy and style of Q. To bring this vision to life, he recruited Barry McIlheney, the editor of Smash Hits, to lead the new venture, while Hepworth stepped in as Editorial Director.
The magazine's foundational philosophy was captured in a one-page proposal drafted by Hepworth. This document outlined a commitment to reviewing and rating every single film released in UK cinemas, underpinned by the belief that while movies can be art, they should always be fun.
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The inaugural edition was published in May 1989 (covering June/July), featuring actors Dennis Quaid and Winona Ryder on the cover to promote the film Great Balls of Fire!. The launch was a commercial success, meeting its initial sales target of 50,000 copies.
Editorial Evolution and Growth
From its inception, Empire adopted a strict rating system for its film reviews, utilizing a star scale from 1 to 5, notably excluding half-stars to maintain decisive critiques.
The leadership of the magazine evolved through several key transitions. Barry McIlheney steered the publication for the first 44 issues before handing the reins to Phil Thomas in March 1993. Thomas, who had been with the magazine since the start, served as editor until July 1995, when he transitioned to managing editor. Andrew Collins took over for a brief period (issues 73–75) before returning to Q, leading to the promotion of Features Editor Mark Salisbury.
Over the years, the magazine expanded its reach and influence. In 2006, Empire published the Empire Film Guide, a comprehensive compilation of its extensive archive of film reviews. Ownership of the publication shifted in early 2008 when Bauer acquired Emap Consumer Media.
Key Facts
- Launch Date: May 1989.
- Founding Philosophy: Movies can be art, but they should always be fun.
- Review System: A 1 to 5 star rating system with no half-stars.
- First Cover Stars: Dennis Quaid and Winona Ryder.
- Initial Sales Goal: 50,000 copies.
- Parent Company Change: Acquired by Bauer from Emap in 2008.
Editorial Leadership
Empire has been guided by eleven different editors throughout its history, each shaping the voice of the publication. While the permanent editors managed the day-to-day operations, the magazine has also welcomed high-profile guest editors for special milestones, including Steven Spielberg for the 20th Anniversary Issue in 2009 and Sam Mendes for the Spectre special in 2015.
| Editor | Issue Range / Period |
|---|---|
| Barry McIlheney | Issues 1–44 |
| Phil Thomas | Issues 45–72 |
| Andrew Collins | Issues 73–75 |
| Mark Salisbury | Issues 76–88 |
| Ian Nathan | Issues 89–126 |
| Emma Cochrane | Issues 127–161 |
| Colin Kennedy | Issues 162–209 |
| Mark Dinning | Issues 210–304 |
| Morgan Rees | Issues 306–315 |
| Terri White | Issues 318–393 |
| Nick De Semlyen | Issue 394–Present |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded Empire magazine?
The idea was proposed by David Hepworth of Emap, who served as the Editorial Director, while Barry McIlheney was recruited as the first editor.
How does Empire rate its movies?
Empire uses a star rating system ranging from 1 to 5 stars. The magazine does not use half-stars in its reviews.
Which famous directors have guest-edited the magazine?
Steven Spielberg guest-edited the 20th Anniversary Issue in June 2009, and Sam Mendes guest-edited the Spectre special in September 2015.
What was the first cover of Empire?
The first edition, published in May 1989, featured Dennis Quaid and Winona Ryder on the cover for the movie Great Balls of Fire!.
Who currently edits Empire?
Nick De Semlyen has been the editor since issue 394.