Decidedly on my "100 Favorite" list.

Rating: Null/10 (26 April 2003)

They don't make movies this great anymore, or at least, I haven't seen any such lately. It is an epic, as I think it was meant to be, but the director achieved more, perhaps than he thought. The credit belongs chiefly to the young actor, Christian Bale, whose career,I confess, I have not followed, but who, among a well selected cast, not the least of whom are John Malkovich and Miranda Richardson (anyone ever seen a BAD movie that John Malkovich was in?)are the pivotal players, and truly make the film. An incredible support cast does a great effort, and succedes in a flawless line of action. [Did you notice Ben Stiller? He's in there for a small part, but, of course, done well. Remember the old line, "there are no small parts; only small actors"? This gives one a look at a "small part" for a future great actor. From the first time I saw this film, in the '80's, I have been haunted by the music [John Williams] and the performances, especially of the child actor. I greatly disagree with a previous reviewer that this is in any way a David Lean wannabe film. In fact, I believe it is truly unique, even for Spielberg, and all connected with the film. I am a member of this era and everything from the mannerisms to the hairstyles are so very correct. The only thing I ever noticed was that the silver dollar (used as a golf chip and later found by "Jamie" in the pool) seemed to be anachronistic, but I may be wrong. I have watched many times, and perhaps my eyes are not as good as they once were. This most assuredly stays on my "100 Favorite" list, and heartily do I advise those who know not of this history to view it. I am buying a copy for my grandchildren's library. It is not only a good film, it is an important film, about which I can say that few make the list. If you view and are interested by this film, I suggest that you read and view "The Good Earth", written by Pearl S. Buck. Even now, with all the digital properties of movies, the special effects are remarkable, and the acting, characterization is superb. It gives the viewers a background on China in pre-WWII times, from the view of the Chinese peasants. In any case, I suspect that "Empire of The Sun" will grow in it's ability to attract viewers, and in a most engaging manner. It is difficult to view this film with emotional detachment, especially for one who remembers WWII, or for anyone who was once a child.