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Amazon.co.uk Review
Roundly dismissed as one of Steven Spielberg's least successful efforts, this very underrated film poignantly follows the World War II adventures of young Jim (a brilliant Christian Bale), caught in the throes of the fall of China. What if you once had everything and lost it all in an afternoon? What if you were only 12 years old at the time? Bale's transformation, from pampered British ruling-class child to an imprisoned, desperate, nearly feral boy, is nothing short of stunning. Also stunning are exceptional sets, cinematography and music (the last courtesy of John Williams) that enhance author J.G. Ballard's and screenwriter Tom Stoppard's depiction of another, less familiar casualty of war. In a time when competitors were releasing "comedic", derivative coming-of-age films, Empire of the Sun stands out as an epic in the classic David Lean sense--despite confusion or perceived competition with the equally excellent The Last Emperor (also released in 1987, and also a coming-of-age in a similar setting). It is also a remarkable testament to, yes, the human spirit. And despite its disappointing box-office returns, Empire of the Sun helped to further establish Spielberg as more than a commercial director and set the standard, tone and look for future efforts Schindler's List and Saving Private Ryan. --N.F. Mendoza
Special Features
- The China Odyssey Documentary (1987, 49 mins) - Dolby 5.1 Audio - Theatrical Trailer
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
16 of 17 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
This is a very good adaptation of a very good novel. Speilberg is a great film maker but, in my opinion, not always the best storyteller. Fortunately here we have very true reading of J.G.Ballard's work: far better than his re-working of Schindler's Ark into Schindler's List. Definately worth watching.
If you do enjoy this, I would also recommend you watch the Japanes anime "Grave of the Firlies", which is an even more
powerful examination of the impact of war on children.
13 of 14 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
An amazing tale of the child's view of war. One of my favourite books and easily my favourite film. I recommend this to anyone with heart, consideration and understanding of the human cost of battle
29 of 32 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
i must admit, im a bit of a movie buff. Ive seen hundreds of movies and plenty of war movies at that. I must also admit that im a real fan of steven spielberg and films such as "jaws, close encounters, e.t, indiana jones, the minority report" but I have to say Empire of the sun is probably my favourite of them all.
Its a brilliant film in every way, its thoughtful, moving, and wonderfully performed. Bale gives a superb performance and proves that kids can actually act in films. Some scenes really stand out as stunning such as the bombing of the prison camp and the scenes between Bale and the japanese pilot.
This film ranks as one of my very favourites, because its only one of two films (shawshank redemption being the other) that brings me close to tears every time i watch it, and im a grown man!!!! hehe. Not to be missed. *****
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Most Recent Customer Reviews
A must see film
I always loved this film and kept thinking about getting my own copy and at last I have. Its a breathtakingly beautiful film that you can get lost in,my favourite part is the scene... Read more
Published 18 days ago by Monica Dickens
Empire In The Sun
A war time drama with a twist. Expertly shows how children's views of the world often differ from an adults view of the world. Brilliant acting brings the story to life.
Published 1 month ago by A G Stayte
Emotive. Depth. Brilliant. Unforgettable music and scenery.
I have watched this WWII portrayal several times and each time I learn something new of the horrors of war and the specifc adventure a young british boy experiences as he struggles... Read more
Published 3 months ago by Mrs. C. Manfredi
BORING? NOT!!!!!
I often fall asleep for a crafty nap if I find a film a tad boring - but loved this one - had seen some of it before (did I catch up on lost sleep I wonder? Read more
Published 3 months ago by Dihorne
Boring, oh so boring
One of Spielbergs less successful attempts. The boy in the film is the most irritating of all. Being in the middle of the whole Japanese occupation but seems he is clueless as... Read more
Published 4 months ago by Andries J. Hough
Aspect Ratio?
Can anyone please tell me what the aspect ratio is? Is this wide screen? I don't understand why amazon does not show this information. Thank you.
Published 4 months ago by Computer Tech
Worth the Hype?
A WW2 film from a child's perspective, living in China. Great acting by a young Christian Bale and this version also comes with moderate extras including a documentary on making... Read more
Published 11 months ago by geraldineb24
Film Buff
Empire Of The Sun - Special Edition [DVD]Great movie at a fare price to watch over & over again.
Published 12 months ago by Bond
Emotion! The Sun like you never seen before...
This is A movie!
I think that's a must. Even if you don't like touching stories, or war stories, please, see this!
You will be... another person!
I think that's a must. Even if you don't like touching stories, or war stories, please, see this!
You will be... another person!
Published 13 months ago by Joćo Paulo Neves
Speilberg does Ballard
Beautifully done and superbly acted, which is generally true of Speilberg's films I think. I'm not a Speilberg fan per se but the quality of his work is undeniably excellent and... Read more
Published 15 months ago by Philip Quinton
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