Review of The Last Emperor (1987) by William H — 11 Apr 2008

Something about bertoluccis storytelling always seems just slightly off to me....but what do I know. this is a beatifully staged and filmed movie. especially the colors and composition of the shots. this is the story of a man that, while everyone expects him to have a great deal of power and control, he in fact has absolutely none.

he is essentially not cut out for the path that has been chosen for him. there are a number of problems with the film but many good points, the best of which is peter otoole. it is interesting to see the changes that happen over time to this character and how he reacts to all the circumstances that head his way.