Context

Fascinated by the unique relationship between London and cinema, Big Smoke, Big Screen brings together the voices of 20 film writers to share personal perspectives on how the city and the medium intertwine. Through essays and reflections, the writers delve into how London has been portrayed on screen and how film captures its essence, its stories, and its people.

With over 200 curated film recommendations, the book serves as both a love letter to the city and a gateway to discovering new films. It also includes behind-the-scenes insights from key figures in London’s film and cultural scene, such as TfL Film Office’s Kate Reston, ArtHouse Crouch End owner Sam Neophytou, Gay’s the Word bookshop manager Jim MacSweeney, and Prince Charles Cinema’s head of programming, Paul Vickery.

Design

The design takes inspiration from the typographical charm of cinema facades, where the signage shifts with each new film, and the letters are imperfectly placed. This sense of spontaneity and handcrafted appeal is reflected in the book’s cover typography, which echoes the bold, naive style of classic cinema signage. It captures the nostalgia and immediacy of film announcements, creating a visual connection to the ever-changing yet timeless allure of London’s cinematic spaces.