The sky's the limit (some spoilers)

Rating: Null/10 (25 July 2003)

Empire of the Sun is an interesting mix of Spielberg's talents. The man is one of the most gifted storyteller's in Hollywood, but some topics are extremely difficult for him to portray. Many of his staple 80s crew is used here from Michael Kahn to John Williams and even Allen Daviau (who creates here the best work of his career), but it is the script that suffers the most from his work.
Empire of the Sun can easily be considered a more mature version of An American Tail, also Spielberg, because they rely on similar hooks and devices to carry the story and involve the audience. I will admit that his use of the camera has gotten steadily better even though JAWS is a tough mark to beat. The editing feels totally off and, while I would've like some more depth in some scenes, jumps too far around after trying to get us adjusted to the world we are now in. The opening exposition, Eurocentric as it is, only paves way for an even longer first act that tries explaining too much of the world in December 1941.
In another fashion, Empire of the Sun represents Spielberg's urge to create a vision that would become Schindler's List. I am happy there is no flag-waving or jingoism on the part of Christian Bale's character. He is one of the best child actors I have seen, even when he is responsible for carrying the entire movie on his diminutive shoulders. John Malkovich is good, but his character's lack of dimension is the fault of the writer, not him.
Overall, an interesting, albeit free-spirited, movie that might please drama buffs. Others may be turned off by its long runtime. After all, it's about a boy who loves flying but never gets a chance while the world collapses around him. 2.5 out of 5 stars. Spielberg's done better.