SECRET CEREMONY PRESENTS: 'Edward II' at Reference Point

SECRET CEREMONY returns this autumn with a screening of Derek Jarman's Edward II, accompanied by a talk with its Oscar-winning costume designer Sandy Powell, at Reference Point bookshop on September 14th 2026.

Jarman's film is a reimagining of Christopher Marlowe's play, transforming it into a provocative protest for gay rights featuring an award-winning performance by Tilda Swinton.

Sandy Powell, three-time Academy Award-winning costume designer and frequent collaborator of Jarman's, joins us for this screening — stay after the film (and grab a drink at the bar) to hear her discuss costuming this movie and Jarman's legacy.

This screening is in celebration of our new print magazine edition, titled GUTS OF ALBION/MERRIE ENGLAND, which examines modern British identity through the lens of arts and culture.

As Reference Point is a beloved library, bookshop, and bar, it's the perfect spot for you to enjoy reading a copy of our magazine — which you can pre-order at a discount when you purchase your ticket, should you choose to support indie media!

FILM SYNOPSIS

Inspired by Christopher Marlowe's play, Jarman's film is a surreal, postmodern vision of King Edward II's tragic downfall. Laced with startling anachronisms — a serenade by Annie Lennox accompanies a pivotal scene — Edward II is celebrated as a cult classic of queer cinema.