The settings provide a magnificent opportunity for Ferdinando Scarfiotti and Vittorio Storaro's cinematography is regal. The original music by David Byrne, Ryuichi Sakamoto and Cong Su marries perfectly with the magnificence of the imagery. The DVD appears to have been struck from a composite transfer. The many straight edges and details are jumping all over the place. Some scenes are slightly soft, but the overpowering element of this DVD is shimmering, moir and incessant edge jitter.
Large screens emphasize some visual problems more than others.
Viewing on a smaller monitor may reduce the artifact impact to a degree. The varied lighting schemes of cinematographer Vittorio Storaro are maintained faithfully. The Last Emperor is magnificent entertainment tarnished by a less than acceptable transfer.