Join Britain’s best-known film critic, Mark Kermode, and award-winning radio producer Jenny Nelson for an unmissable evening of cinematic insight, sharp wit and passionate debate. On 7 November at York Theatre Royal, Kermode and Nelson will come together explore the power of film music, inspired by their new book Mark Kermode’s Surround Sound. This event is part of our Beyond the Frame season, running alongside the 2025 film festival and encompassing live comedy, music and more.

Mark Kermode’s Surround Sound

The book asks questions like: “How can a film score make you cheer, shiver, cry or punch the air?” “How do directors communicate their musical vision to composers?” “And when does a soundtrack take on a life of its own?” It is a full-throttle trip down the glorious rabbit hole of film composition, celebrating the emotional connection that audiences form with film music. It explores the evolution of film scoring from silent films to the present day, and examines how what we hear has an impact on what we see. Inside, Mark talks to some of his favourite composers and delves into the movie music he loves, including interviews with extraordinary talents from Radiohead’s Jonny Greenwood to Oscar-winning composers Rachel Portman and Howard Shore, telling the stories behind iconic soundtracks such as Jocelyn Pook’s Eyes Wide Shut, Michael Kamen’s Brazil and Vangelis’s Blade Runner. Mark Kermode’s Surround Sound is a thrilling take on how great scores are brought to life.

What to Expect

Mark is a BAFTA member, Observer columnist, and recipient of the BFI’s Outstanding Contribution to Film Criticism. Known for his razor-sharp reviews on Kermode & Mayo’s Take – “the only film podcast you’ll ever need” – and bestselling books like The Good, The Bad and The Multiplex, Hatchet Job and How Does it Feel? , he brings encyclopaedic film knowledge and famously fiery opinions to the stage. Jenny produced Mark’s Scala Radio film music show for five years and brings deep behind-the-scenes expertise and a broadcaster’s ear to the conversation. From cult classics to blockbuster scores, expect passionate discussion, revealing stories, and chances to ask questions. This is a night of honest, hilarious, and deeply informed film talk you simply won’t hear anywhere else – from the definitive voice of British cinema.

Music from Mark Kermode at Aesthetica Film Festival

Kermode is co-founder and double-bassist of the skiffle & blues band The Dodge Brothers, who (with pianist Neil Brand) provide live accompaniment to silent movies. On 6 November, as part of Beyond the Frame at York Theatre Royal, you can experience a dazzling collision of classic cinema and live music as The Dodge Brothers bring their acclaimed live score to Beggars of Life (1928), a landmark American silent film starring Louise Brooks. Click here to find out more and book tickets.

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Join us for Mark Kermode: In Conversation with Jenny Nelson at York Theatre Royal on 7 November. Book Your Tickets Here.

Discover the full Beyond the Frame programme here.

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