Review

by Michael C

A powerful wartime drama

This adaptation of Empire of the Sun was released just three years after the publication of J.G. Ballard's original novel, and the film still stands the test of time. The story revolves around a young English boy who is deserted in wartime Shanghai after his parents are kidnapped. Adapted by Tom Stoppard and directed by Spielberg, the film features an early performance by a young Christian Bale who proves that he could even hold his own back then. At times the extent of Jim's perseverance, survival instincts and good luck pushes believability, but the film benefits from impressive cinematography, strong performances and its epic historical themes.