Grand in scope, intimate in detail

Rating: 10/10 (27 January 2019)

I think it is the quiet moments that stay with me from this film; the empress shutting the door the final time, Pu Yi gardening, or RJ riding the bike is almost more vivid than the epic scenes in retrospect. This is the testament to the film's, especially the screenplay, of anchoring such a big story in the little details. The first time I watched the film I knew nothing of the history but the writing was strong enough that I able to following the political intrigue and the personal story of life long prisoner. The script does a remarkable job balancing the flash backs and telling the story of Pu Yi's last ordeal in political rehabilitation.
Now, don't get me wrong the film is absolutely grand in places. The cinematography especially is beautiful. Further, it has a little bit of color coding. (i.e. the rehabilitation prison is washed out blue and grey, the Forbidden City is gold and black, etc.) to help orientate the viewer. The resulting effect is a long intimate film with vistas of mood and passion.
This is rather a sad story. The film embraces that to its merit. Great film.