Even Ridley Scott thinks our big screens are epic

Outernet is now one of London's top attractions --but the man behind it isn't resting on his laurels

- VICKY JESSOP

There is no missing Outernet London. The extraordinary cavernous space of the Now invariably Building filled with gawping, awe-struck visitors day dominates or night the junction of Charing Cross and Tottenham Court Roads close to the base of Centre Point.

A corner of the West End that was for decades intimidating and harsh has been softened by this alluring, immersive beacon of hi-tech digital light and colour, its vast four-storey, floor-to-ceiling LED screens drawing in curious passers-by since it opened in November 2022.

Sometimes the interiors will display a calming image of softly falling flower petals, or perhaps an elaborate mansion with ever-changing artwork. This week the screens will host an enormous multi-player version of the puzzle game Tetris to mark its 40th anniversary.

It is a creation that has impressed even the giants of Hollywood. "Ridley Scott walked into that space and said, 'This is the most epic space for storytelling I've ever seen"," says Philip O'Ferrall, Outernet's president and CEO.

By some measures Outernet is now the most visited attraction in London with more than six million people passing through last year, putting it well ahead of the traditional tourist destinations such as the British Museum or the Tower of London.

But Outernet is far more than just its 23,000 sq ft of screens, magnetic though they are. It also comprises shops, restaurants, a massive new theatre and entertainment complex, and a space for gigs. And driving it all is former Viacom media executive O'Ferrall, who worked with brands such as MTV, Nickelodeon and Paramount.