About Empire Records

Empire Records (1995) is a cult classic directed by Allan Moyle. The film is a record store-based coming of age tale that focuses on the lives of a tight-knit group of young record store employees who are trying to prevent the independent store from being sold to a large chain. Embodied with humor, tragedy, and rebellious spirit, this movie encapsulates the mid-'90s alternative culture.

Making / Production

The film was produced by Warner Bros. Moyle, known for his ability to accurately depict the lives of young individuals, crafted the narrative, focusing less on plot and more on character’s interactions and quirks. Empire Records is filled with pop culture references and sharp, witty dialogue.

Actors

• Anthony LaPaglia as Joe Reaves: He played the role of the store manager who is loved and respected by his employees. His role is pivotal in the story as he desperately tries to save the store from being sold.
• Liv Tyler as Corey Mason: Playing an intelligent and ambitious high school student, she excellently embodies the spirit of the 90s generation.
• Johnny Whitworth as A.J: A.J is portrayed as a romantic character, who spends the entirety of the film trying to confess his love to Corey.
• Rory Cochrane as Lucas: He portrays the role of an eccentric cashier who starts the main conflict in the movie when he gambles with the store's money in Atlantic City in an attempt to raise enough money to buy the store.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Empire Records wasn’t a hit upon its initial release but gained cult status with home video and television airings.
• Although it is set in the United States, most of the film was shot in Wilmington, North Carolina.
• The store set required over 250,000 albums to appear realistically stocked.

Awards

There are no notable awards associated with this film.

Quotes

• "Damn the Man. Save the Empire." - Mark
• "We mustn't dwell... no, not today. We can't. Not on Rex Manning day!" -Mark
• "What's with today today?" -Lucas

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features music from artists including The Cranberries, The Gin Blossoms, and The The
• The soundtrack, released by A&M Records, featured The Gin Blossoms' hit "Til I Hear It From You" and The The's "This Is the Day"
• Edwyn Collins' songs "A Girl Like You" was used in an iconic scene featuring Liv Tyler