Review of Empire of the Sun (1987) by Cameron J — 21 Aug 2011
"In the 'Empire of the Sun' we see what we've become." Man, that fairly obscure song reference opening should tell you that my creative juices are way off, but hey, I just watched the "Harry Potter" Octology, so what are you gonna do? That's a shame too, because I wish I could better emphasize that Spielberg has created yet another fine film, but a quite flawed, all the same, suffering from slow spots, some bumpy transitions in tone and a moderate lack of originality. Yes, there's not much wrong with the film, but that, in it of itself is the film's greatest flaw, as it's so often rather underwhelming, most because it isn't so terribly offbeat. Still, it slowly, but surely rises in its compellingness. The level of quality this film reaches is worth the wait, but it is still a long wait. Of course, what keeps the film going, before and after that jump in compellingness is the young leading man Christian Bale, who, even at the age of thirteen, is still someone to see.
Like I said, there's little to this film for the most part and that applies to the strengths, just as much as the flaws. The film features a fine story, nothing terribly original though, it may be, as well as lovely cinematography and a rare, but excellent score. Still, although the film itself is not terribly outstanding constantly, there is a strength in it that is. I am of course refering to a young Christian Bale, who carries the film on his shoulders and nails it. He has such a presence and charisma about him, even at this age and he is one of the biggest things that make this film so compelling. Man, this review isn't going as bad as I had feared, but it's still pretty horrible. Let's just end it already.
In the end, "Empire of the Sun" may not keep up the pace constantly, mostly because of its lack of originality, but with a beautiful look and strong story, carried by a young Christian Bale's electrically charismatic lead performance, it remains a powerful, enjoyable experience worth having.
This review of Empire of the Sun (1987) was written by Cameron J on 21 Aug 2011.
Empire of the Sun has generally received very positive reviews.
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