Synopsis
Jamie Graham, a privileged English boy, is living in Shanghai when the Japanese invade and force all foreigners into prison camps. Jamie is captured with an American sailor, who looks out for him while they are in the camp together. Even though he is separated from his parents and in a hostile environment, Jamie maintains his dignity and youthful spirit, providing a beacon of hope for the others held captive with him.
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Cast
- Christian BaleJim
- John MalkovichBasie
- Miranda RichardsonMrs. Victor
- Nigel HaversDr. Rawlins
- Joe PantolianoFrank Demarest
- Leslie PhillipsMaxton
- Masatō IbuSgt. Nagata
- Emily RichardJim's Mother
- Rupert FrazerJim's Father
- Peter GaleMr. Victor
Recommendations
- 80
Empire
Spielberg's technical ability is very clear, with much to appreciate on close examination. - 80
The New York Times
A visual splendor, a heroic adventurousness and an immense scope that make it unforgettable. - 80
Time
Spielberg has energized each frame with allusive legerdemain and an intelligent density of images and emotions. - 75
ReelViews
Empire of the Sun remains a solidly engaging story of heroism in the face of adversity, as filtered through the eyes of a boy obsessed with planes and flight. - 70
Variety
It is up to young English thesp Bale to engage the viewer's interest, which he does superbly. - 63
Chicago Sun-Times
Empire of the Sun adds up to a promising idea, a carefully observed production and some interesting performances. - 63
Boston Globe
Empire of the Sun is an imperfect film, but at its best it's grand and haunting in ways that only a movie can be. [11 Dec 1987] - 60
Washington Post
Though Empire of the Sun is a profoundly perplexing, frustrating object, there are things in it to marvel at and enjoy.
