It has been reacted to before but only once (as far as I know) and fairly recently. I commented on that reaction, hence I know of it. Big plus to Shan for reacting!
@@redcardinalist yeah I saw that too. Just thought it was a fluke. I'm more or less commenting hoping that it's going to get seen now cuz I know some reactors pay attention to what bigger reactors react to
The author of the book upon which this film is based, J. G. Ballard, who was the basis of Christian Bale's character, makes a cameo in the film as the man at the party near the beginning wearing the Union Jack jacket. He lived through most of what you see Jaimie living through in real life.
The P-51 Mustang scene is maybe my favorite scene from any film I have ever seen. The awe on the face of Christian Bale as the pilot passes him at eye level and waves at him. That's what makes Spielberg a master.
Because Empire of the Sun has never gotten the level of appreciation that so many of us believe it deserves, it's almost like being in a secret club. The scene you mention -- "P-51...Cadillac of the skies...!" -- is one of those touchstone moments that stops us in our tracks, dead, every time. Everyone talks -- justifiably, of course -- about Jaws and Close Encounters, etc. But then Empire of the Sun will get mentioned in a conversation and you'll see someone's eyes light up. It's just one of those under-the-radar movies that's loved by so many people, but no one really talks about it so we never really know how beloved it really is!
The pilot waving scene is great however, it is suppsoed to be Jim's immagination - i.e. the pilot isn't actually waving. Just thought I'd mention that 😃 Another thing that might be of interest is that although the Mustang that flies past Jim is a real aircraft all the other shots of aircraft (Japanese or American) are radio controlled scale models. Now they'd be CGI if the movie was made today, but back in the mid 80s that wasn't an option. Another little fun factoid, in that scene on the pagoda roof with the Mustangs flying past, Cristian Bale was supposed to shout and scream as the aircraft flew past and the explosions went off - this was a one-shot take. But in the excitment he didn't!! But the end result is imo better than if he had. Serendipity! Also, this was the first western film compnay to be allowed to shoot in China in the modern persiod. many of the scenes set in Shanghai are actually filmed there, e.g. The Bund. (Other scenes are filmed in England and the camp scenes are in Spain.)
I touched them I fell through heat I can smell the oil and cordite. Maybe if we had been killed our bodies would be part of the. Runway in other words we would be the runway.. the doctor slaps Jim and says Jim try not to think sooo much.
I showed this to my 11 y.o daughter on my parents big TV and massive surround sound i built for them. Pretty much every 15 minutes had her in tears... and at the end of the movie she looked me straight in the eye w/ tears, "dont show me movies like that again" and ran to her room. Today shes in her early 20's and trying to major in film/digital arts in college.
Gallipoli (1981) is a VERY good WW I movie. Starring Mel Gibson and directed by Truman Show director Peter Weir. Very heartbreaking and a view from Australia at a time they thought it was still the right thing to do to serve Queen and Britain.
This movie is actually based on the life of the screenwriter Jim Ballard, as it's told from his perspective, and how the horrors of war can affect a child.
I saw an interview with Spielberg where he explained that David Lean had been planning to make the novel into a film for several years, but then suggested to Spielberg that Spielberg make the film - and so Spielberg did. So you’ll notice Spielberg shot it in a very David Lean way. Amazing film.
Spielberg also took over from Kubrick for A.I: Artificial Intelligence in the style of Kubrick ; and added bits of The Shining to Ready Player One. Loves his influences.
@@SUK2293 Hi :) Yes, I very almost added that info about AI and thought about that very thing as I was typing yesterday. It’s truly amazing that not only is Spielberg a genius, but that he can work in the style of other geniuses and do what they did. I think he’s the master of filmmaking unlike any other master filmmaker. Astounding.
I remember watching this in the theater when it came out and thinking, “That kid is going to be a huge movie star when he grows up.” He was phenomenal in the movie.
The scene where Christian Bale gets lost is why you teach your kids to pay attention and do as they're told. Kids wander around today like nothing can possibly happen to them.
The book the film is based on is semi-autobiographical as J G Ballard lived through Japanese occupation of Shanghai and he dew on many experiences in writing the novel. Some of his other works have been adapted, notably Crash (1996) and High-Rise (2015). I think you can see his wartime experience bleeding into his work, particularly High-Rise. If you ever get around to watching Crash, keep in mind that he would spend time just flicking through TV stations to just absorb the vibes and feelings underling the sort of culture being reflected and created and write some works infused with that.
You should check out "The Last Emperor" (1987), another movie set in China during the same era, and which SWEPT the Academy Awards of 1987, winning 9 Oscars.
It's wonderful to see someone FINALLY reacting to this masterpiece! I've been periodically checking YT for a reaction to Empire of The Sun for years, and to see Shan be the first is 👩🏻🍳😘 Being a mixed and 'Third Culture' kid of the 80s, Empire of The Sun was THE movie that came closest (at the time) to capturing how it felt for me to have multiple cultural and national identities, and to be caught in the middle of have them at war with each other (or in my case, the legacy of said war still having an impact on my day-to-day life). Whenever I think about Jim singing the Welsh lullaby (Suo Gân), it brings tears to my eyes 🥺 Hush, my dear one, Sleep serenely, Now, my lovely Slumber deep. Mother rocks you, Humming lowly, Close your eyes now Go to sleep. Angels hover, Ever nearer, Looking on your Smiling face. I will hold you, Close enfold you Close your eyes now Go to sleep. Lovely darling, I will guard you Keep you from all Woe and harm. Slowly, gently, I will rock you, Resting sweetly, On my arm. May you slumber, E’er so softly, Dream of visions Wondrous fair. I will hold you, Close enfold you. Close your eyes now Go to sleep. May you slumber, E’er so softly, Dream of visions Wondrous fair. I will hold you, Close enfold you. Close your eyes now, Go to sleep.
Spielberg makes films celebrating the quality of child-like innocence, awe, and wonder. This movie is about the loss of child-like innocence. And yet, this movie has some of the most beautiful, spiritual, meditative, elegiac moments in all of Spielberg's oeuvre precisely because the whole story unfolds from a child's vantage point, and that child-like spirituality that Spielberg is the master of portraying (see E.T.) is at fever-pitch here as the horrors of war are seen through it.
Christian Bale, what a phenomenal actor! When I watched this movie for the first time, I immediately knew he would turn out to be one of the greats....in my opinion. Great movie, great lead actor, great director! Thanks Shan.
The cinematography was by Allen Daviau. He was also the cinematographer for 'E.T.', Spielberg's segment of 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' and 'The Color Purple'. He was Spielberg's goto cinematographer through most of the eighties (if he wasn't making an Indiana Jones film that is). E.T., The Color Purple and this film are, in my opinion, the most beautifully shot Spielberg films. I believe the scene where Jim wakes up, before they're shipped to the camp, was shot in St. George's Hall in Liverpool (my home city), UK. In fact many of the scenes set in China were shot in Liverpool. I can't believe Spielberg was filming in Liverpool when I was a kid and I missed it entirely. Saddest miss of my life.
I just watched The Pale Blue Eye with Christian Bale. It's quite good and it's awesome to see you watch this movie where he starts as a really young kid. And you're right, it is impressive how long his career has spanned.
I saw this in the cinema as a kid when the same age as Christian Bale's 'Jim'. It has always left the greatest impression on me ever since. A complete masterpiece. I tear up at the end every time I watch it, it's frankly unavoidable
It’s great to see this movie getting more attention, it’s one of my favorites and your reaction was so satisfying! It blew me away when I first saw it only about four years ago. Good actors are impressive in and of themselves but I’m always especially impressed when children pull it off. Christian Bale has a gift.
I saw this in the theater when it was released. I was only 12 and at that time didn't know or understand much about WWII. Up until that point I had just watched movies to be entertained. I sat there slack jawed joining Jim on his journey. This was the first film that moved me. I learned that film could do more than entertain. It could teach, it could evoke emotions, it could connect with you in a way that changes your life. I still weep each time I watch it. I even cried during this video.
I saw this in theater when I was a kid and it had quite an impact on me. After rewatching it several times, I've come to consider it one of my favorite movies of all time.
This was one of my fav movies when I saw it in theaters in 1988. I loved the John Williams Soundtrack. This was the first time I saw Ben Stiller in a serious drama too.
@@peterkoester7358that's interesting the lady that sings the Welsh lullaby they had Jim either pantomiming it in the beginning or it's got me confused now because of beautiful blonde lady sang the song in the movie 🍿
Great reaction, as usual. This was Spielberg's followup to "The Color Purple," which I highly recommend you take a look at. These two movies ushered in Spielberg's "serious, grownup movie" phase. Empire of The Sun wasn't a box office success, but it has definitely aged well in thirty years and introduced us to Christian Bale.
Hey Shan I just wanted to say that I think you are 1 of the Best Movie Reactors here on TH-cam. I watch a lot of Movie Reaction Videos from other TH-camRS as well and some of them can be pretty toxic and negative when it comes to Movies that they did not enjoy but you aren't. You are always honest, fair, and respectful even to Movies that you did not enjoy and I really appreciate that. You are definitely 1 of the Best.
Of this genre, this is my favorite. The scene on the rooftop is heartwrenching. You talked about him saying he can't remember what his parents look like. To me it's the whole scene. He's reliving childhood, the passions of his early fascination. I believe the last act is a descent into madness. Latching onto his childhood dreams, what else does he have? What kills me is as he's being carried off the rooftop, he's conjugating what I assume is latin. "I shall be loved..." Niagra Falls every time. And I've seen this movie at least 20 times. Never fails.
I remember watching this movie as a kid and no one else I knew had ever seen and heard of the movie. Not until I got a lot older I started meeting people who else had seen the movie. Still enjoy it.
Outstanding film. Criminally underrated. And one of, if not the first Hollywood film to be shot in China. The extras you referred to were actually locals going about their daily lives.
This film gets me every time. I sometimes catch myself humming the song Jamie sings throughout the film. It is incredible. Thank you so much for watching this.
Empire of the Sun was filmed at Elstree Studios in the United Kingdom, and on location in Shanghai and Spain. After a year of negotiations, permission was granted for a three-week shoot in early March 1987. It was the first American film shot in Shanghai since the 1940s
This is probably top 5 favourite movies of mine. Christian Bale's performance was incredible, and the final scene with his mother makes me cry every single time, as well as the scene on the watchtower with the doctor. Suo Gan is the lullaby that plays throughout the movie, it's a Welsh lullaby that I know from my childhood so the extra layer of nostalgia that it adds to the emotion of this movie is pretty strong!
I live in the south of Spain in Andalusia on the province of Cádiz an this film was shot on Teebujena a neighbouring village about 15 miles from where I actually live. They built the concentration camp set and they hired.many people from Teebujena as extras. There are many curious facts surrounded the filming. One day the spanish extras got tired of the poor quality of the catering supplied by an English catterig company and they complaint setting a flamenco dance party on the middle of the set. Spielberg was very amused about and he ordered to hire the service of a Spanish caterkng service for the extras. During the filming Ben Stiller lived on my town Puerto de Santa María because is set neighbouring Teebujena where it was the camp set. On interviews he said he has fond memories about the fun he enjoyed here the night live and the wine and meals of my city.
I remember that soundtrack.....several selections from the film on a 'John Williams Greatest Hits' album I purchased. Love that shot when Jim goes over to touch the Zero, and salute the pilots....& they salute him back.
I remember being privileged enough to go see crew showing of this film, in Leicester Square, London. Since that day I have loved this film, and always shed a tear at the final scene. Thank you for being the first to react to this.
World War I started due to an array of alliances between the Entente ( to become the Allies in WWII ) Central Powers ( to become the Axis in WWII ). Keep in mind all the treaties pre-World War I , linking all the countries on each side. The best way to describe it is Dominos. When archduke Ferdinand his wife were shot and killed triggering the first Domino to fall. The treaties were between individual countries where if one country attacked the other will come to their defense. That country has other treaties with other countries basically mutual defense treaties. There was a lot of political tension between the various countries and all it took is that assassination.
j.g. ballard (whose autobiographical novel this is based on) went on to become one of the leading figures of british new wave science fiction in the 60s and 70s. he's said that the surreal nature of life in the internment camp later helped him to see the more surreal and frightening aspects of "regular" society as well. if you're ever up for a particularly challenging reaction shan, david cronenberg's 1996 adaptation of ballard's novel crash certainly pushes a lot of buttons.
Empire Of The Sun is one of those movies in Spielberg’s filmography that often gets overlooked but it’s a great movie. If you’re looking for a good World War One flick, I’d recommend another overlooked Spielberg gem. War Horse (2011).
A lot of the sets of Shanghai is simply the old city itself just a couple years before Urbanization Explosion occurred in China. So Spielberg got lucky there.
One of my top 5 all-time favourite movies. I cannot believe that Siskel & Ebert gave it 2 thumbs down. The scene where Jamie and his mom reunite gets me every time. As a mom myself, I get emotional. I cannot imagine the torment those parents went through, not knowing the fate of their children.
I watched this on cable a bunch as a kid. I didn't understand a lot of it and didnt know much about the war. But it doesnt matter. Even as a kid you feel it.
J.G. Ballard grew up to write some of the most imaginative & disturbing fiction. He also wrote Crash, which was adapted into film by David Cronenberg, and High-Rise, directed by Ben Wheatley.
Script by Tom Stoppard from the novel by sci-fi author J.G. Ballard -- a fictionalized version of his childhood and internment. Ballard wrote Crash and Concrete Island.
The absurdist style for which Tom Stoppard is primarily known as a playwright is on prominent display in *Empire of the Sun,* particularly in the scenes where Jim is wandering around the city, and again after Jim and the other prisoners leave the concentration camp.
Good reaction. After this movie, you should put the movie Toro Toro Tora (1970) on your list. It's about the events leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Has an all star cast and is very historical accurate portrayal according to The History Buff on his channel. Another type of movie is The Sand Pebbles (1966), starring Steve McQueen, Richard Crenna, Candice Bergen, Richard Attenborough, and Mako. Mako played Conan The Barbarian's wizard friend. Also, The Sand Pebbles was directed by Robert Wise and music by the great Jerry Goldsmith. Need I say more? Thank you.
A wonderful film and great performances from Bale and Malkovich. If you haven't seen it, I recommend the 1992 remake "Of Mice And Men". It stars John Malkovich and Gary Sinise.
I saw a really good WW1 movie called "Beneath hill 60". It's about the tunneling efforts to place a huge amount of explosives under a German held hill that was being held by 10's of thousands of soldiers.
A good film detailing the origins and diplomatic machinations of WWI is the 3-part BBC production "37 Days" which came out in 2014, the 100th anniversary of WWI - starring Ian Mcdiarmid, Nicholas Farrell, Tim Pigott-Smith, Sinead Cusack.
You forgot the all time classic Spielberg WWII film... 1941. A completely serious and accurate depiction of America's beginning involvement in WWII. Spielberg may have taken a few creative twists and turns... but just a few.
Gallipoli, Paths of Glory or any of the All Quiet versions are worth watching for good WW1 films. For your own benefit there is a seminal BBC documentary called the Great War. It was made in the 60s when a lot of veterans were still alive.
I had a feeling you'd really appreciate this film. I've been suggesting it for some time and I believe you're only the 2nd to check it out. Seems odd, considering it's a Spielberg movie. I still remember getting goosebumps at the first slo-mo shot of the P-51... Jim's reaction was similar to mine when I first witnessed old warbirds flying in an airshow.
The American P-51s were the real deal. Many of those planes are owned and still flown by private owners all over the world in Groups like The Commemorative Air Force who do Air Shows all over featuring many fighters and bombers flown during WW2. In fact many P-51s were flown by smaller nations' air forces for decades after the war. So getting some for this movie in 1987 was not that difficult to do.
There is a GREAT old documentary called The Prize that is all about the history of oil and how it was a major influence in both World Wars and other geo-politics up until the 90s when it was made. You might have to find it on DVD.
Good WW-1 films: "The Blue Max" "Hell's Angels" "All Quiet On The Western Front" "The Great Waldo Pepper" (takes place after WW-1, but still worth the watch)
The only WW1 movie I can think of is Laurence of Arabia. This does tell something about the Ottoman Empire's fall. Other than that, The King's Man ( 2021 ) is probably the only other movie I can think of that isn't a documentary.
My all-time favorite Christian Bale movie is Newsies. 🥰🥰🥰 Grew up with a huge crush on him, thanks for that movie. 😂 My best friend and I managed to track down his family’s telephone number in Bournemouth. Seeing as this was 1991/92, it was a decent achievement for a couple 15/16 year olds. We never had the guts to call it. 😂😂😂
Which is funny because it was shot in China at the same time as this one. These two were the first Western productions to film in China in many decades.
Nice pick. I remember watching this as a kid rewatching it throughout the years and recently re-watched it a year ago or so. Fantastic movie. I love WWII films anyhow so I always enjoy War films.
Shan, you should react to "A Very Long Engagement" from the same director of Amelie. His depiction of WWI is amazing, and has the same vibe of Amelie, but with the the horrors of the war. Also the cinematography is beautiful and is also starring by Audrey Tautou and Gaspard Ulliel (RIP one year ago)
I'm glad some are re-discovering this beautiful film. Two of his movie that I love that are not that known is this movie and AI. Artificial Intelligence.
Some background as to why you there is a a bunch of Europeans living in absolute luxury with Japanese soldiers just fortified outside: This was the Shanghai International Settlement in which separate American and British enclaves resided within the city for about a century. The same day as the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japan also invaded American and European holdings throughout Asia and the Pacific simultaneously, including the Shanghai Settlement.
This is definitely one of Spielberg’s most underrated films, and even then you could tell that Christian Bale was going to be one of the best actors
It's about time someone reacted to this. One of the best movies
It has been reacted to before but only once (as far as I know) and fairly recently. I commented on that reaction, hence I know of it.
Big plus to Shan for reacting!
@@redcardinalist yeah I saw that too. Just thought it was a fluke. I'm more or less commenting hoping that it's going to get seen now cuz I know some reactors pay attention to what bigger reactors react to
Four others did before (Unwind Reactions (🇿🇦), ReelOz (🇦🇺), Ricky Life (🇮🇳), Thor Reacts(?), you should react to!
And yes it is!
@@redcardinalist four actually, (Unwind Reactions (🇿🇦), ReelOz (🇦🇺), Ricky Life (🇮🇳), Thor Reacts(?), you should react to!
The author of the book upon which this film is based, J. G. Ballard, who was the basis of Christian Bale's character, makes a cameo in the film as the man at the party near the beginning wearing the Union Jack jacket. He lived through most of what you see Jaimie living through in real life.
The P-51 Mustang scene is maybe my favorite scene from any film I have ever seen. The awe on the face of Christian Bale as the pilot passes him at eye level and waves at him. That's what makes Spielberg a master.
Because Empire of the Sun has never gotten the level of appreciation that so many of us believe it deserves, it's almost like being in a secret club. The scene you mention -- "P-51...Cadillac of the skies...!" -- is one of those touchstone moments that stops us in our tracks, dead, every time. Everyone talks -- justifiably, of course -- about Jaws and Close Encounters, etc. But then Empire of the Sun will get mentioned in a conversation and you'll see someone's eyes light up. It's just one of those under-the-radar movies that's loved by so many people, but no one really talks about it so we never really know how beloved it really is!
The pilot waving scene is great however, it is suppsoed to be Jim's immagination - i.e. the pilot isn't actually waving. Just thought I'd mention that 😃
Another thing that might be of interest is that although the Mustang that flies past Jim is a real aircraft all the other shots of aircraft (Japanese or American) are radio controlled scale models. Now they'd be CGI if the movie was made today, but back in the mid 80s that wasn't an option.
Another little fun factoid, in that scene on the pagoda roof with the Mustangs flying past, Cristian Bale was supposed to shout and scream as the aircraft flew past and the explosions went off - this was a one-shot take. But in the excitment he didn't!! But the end result is imo better than if he had. Serendipity!
Also, this was the first western film compnay to be allowed to shoot in China in the modern persiod. many of the scenes set in Shanghai are actually filmed there, e.g. The Bund. (Other scenes are filmed in England and the camp scenes are in Spain.)
I touched them I fell through heat I can smell the oil and cordite. Maybe if we had been killed our bodies would be part of the. Runway in other words we would be the runway.. the doctor slaps Jim and says Jim try not to think sooo much.
You should see the lady that sang that song. They blended it in with a choir here but actually that is a Welsh lullaby sang by a beautiful blonde
I believe he's pantamineing because a blonde lady
I showed this to my 11 y.o daughter on my parents big TV and massive surround sound i built for them. Pretty much every 15 minutes had her in tears... and at the end of the movie she looked me straight in the eye w/ tears, "dont show me movies like that again" and ran to her room. Today shes in her early 20's and trying to major in film/digital arts in college.
Gallipoli (1981) is a VERY good WW I movie. Starring Mel Gibson and directed by Truman Show director Peter Weir. Very heartbreaking and a view from Australia at a time they thought it was still the right thing to do to serve Queen and Britain.
Yes, Gallipoli is superb. One of the best war movies and one of Mel Gibson’s first films.
"...it's not their anger, it's their patience..."
Oh man, that line always chills me.
We can eat the weevils the trend is down.
This movie is actually based on the life of the screenwriter Jim Ballard, as it's told from his perspective, and how the horrors of war can affect a child.
This is based on a true story and there is a man that was Jim he's been on several shows
I saw an interview with Spielberg where he explained that David Lean had been planning to make the novel into a film for several years, but then suggested to Spielberg that Spielberg make the film - and so Spielberg did.
So you’ll notice Spielberg shot it in a very David Lean way.
Amazing film.
Spielberg also took over from Kubrick for A.I: Artificial Intelligence in the style of Kubrick ; and added bits of The Shining to Ready Player One. Loves his influences.
@@SUK2293 Hi :)
Yes, I very almost added that info about AI and thought about that very thing as I was typing yesterday.
It’s truly amazing that not only is Spielberg a genius, but that he can work in the style of other geniuses and do what they did.
I think he’s the master of filmmaking unlike any other master filmmaker. Astounding.
Yes, this is absolutely Spielberg’s Lean movie.
I remember watching this in the theater when it came out and thinking, “That kid is going to be a huge movie star when he grows up.” He was phenomenal in the movie.
I am a huge WWII Aircraft buff, and that scene with the P-51s near the end of the movie still gives me goosebumps.
Me too, brother.
Ya the Merlin with superchargers howling
I still can’t watch this without breaking down hysterically every time 😭
I know exactly how you feel 💯
You and me both, Charlie.
A great film that has not gotten the recognition it deserves. I am really glad to see Shan reacting...I cannot wait to hear his comments. 💯
Such a pleasure to watch Shaun's reactions when it's a movie l actually am interested in.. He's the best on TH-cam. 2nd best isn't close.
Agreed this is such an under the radar great Spielberg film.
@@generoberts9151 Yes, saw it at school. Left quite an impression.
Saw it again weeks ago.
The scene where Christian Bale gets lost is why you teach your kids to pay attention and do as they're told. Kids wander around today like nothing can possibly happen to them.
The book the film is based on is semi-autobiographical as J G Ballard lived through Japanese occupation of Shanghai and he dew on many experiences in writing the novel. Some of his other works have been adapted, notably Crash (1996) and High-Rise (2015). I think you can see his wartime experience bleeding into his work, particularly High-Rise. If you ever get around to watching Crash, keep in mind that he would spend time just flicking through TV stations to just absorb the vibes and feelings underling the sort of culture being reflected and created and write some works infused with that.
You should check out "The Last Emperor" (1987), another movie set in China during the same era, and which SWEPT the Academy Awards of 1987, winning 9 Oscars.
It's wonderful to see someone FINALLY reacting to this masterpiece! I've been periodically checking YT for a reaction to Empire of The Sun for years, and to see Shan be the first is 👩🏻🍳😘 Being a mixed and 'Third Culture' kid of the 80s, Empire of The Sun was THE movie that came closest (at the time) to capturing how it felt for me to have multiple cultural and national identities, and to be caught in the middle of have them at war with each other (or in my case, the legacy of said war still having an impact on my day-to-day life). Whenever I think about Jim singing the Welsh lullaby (Suo Gân), it brings tears to my eyes 🥺
Hush, my dear one,
Sleep serenely,
Now, my lovely
Slumber deep.
Mother rocks you,
Humming lowly,
Close your eyes now
Go to sleep.
Angels hover,
Ever nearer,
Looking on your
Smiling face.
I will hold you,
Close enfold you
Close your eyes now
Go to sleep.
Lovely darling,
I will guard you
Keep you from all
Woe and harm.
Slowly, gently,
I will rock you,
Resting sweetly,
On my arm.
May you slumber,
E’er so softly,
Dream of visions
Wondrous fair.
I will hold you,
Close enfold you.
Close your eyes now
Go to sleep.
May you slumber,
E’er so softly,
Dream of visions
Wondrous fair.
I will hold you,
Close enfold you.
Close your eyes now,
Go to sleep.
The soundtrack cue called "Cadillac of the Skies" is breathtaking just listening to solo.
Paths of Glory is an excellent (anti)war movie set during WW1, directed by Stanley Kubrick.
So glad you watched this one - it's easily one of Spielberg's best and in my mind it's almost criminal how generally overlooked it is.
Spielberg makes films celebrating the quality of child-like innocence, awe, and wonder. This movie is about the loss of child-like innocence. And yet, this movie has some of the most beautiful, spiritual, meditative, elegiac moments in all of Spielberg's oeuvre precisely because the whole story unfolds from a child's vantage point, and that child-like spirituality that Spielberg is the master of portraying (see E.T.) is at fever-pitch here as the horrors of war are seen through it.
The killing fields is another great movie and performance from malkovich
Christian Bale, what a phenomenal actor! When I watched this movie for the first time, I immediately knew he would turn out to be one of the greats....in my opinion. Great movie, great lead actor, great director! Thanks Shan.
The cinematography was by Allen Daviau. He was also the cinematographer for 'E.T.', Spielberg's segment of 'Twilight Zone: The Movie' and 'The Color Purple'. He was Spielberg's goto cinematographer through most of the eighties (if he wasn't making an Indiana Jones film that is). E.T., The Color Purple and this film are, in my opinion, the most beautifully shot Spielberg films.
I believe the scene where Jim wakes up, before they're shipped to the camp, was shot in St. George's Hall in Liverpool (my home city), UK. In fact many of the scenes set in China were shot in Liverpool. I can't believe Spielberg was filming in Liverpool when I was a kid and I missed it entirely. Saddest miss of my life.
I just watched The Pale Blue Eye with Christian Bale. It's quite good and it's awesome to see you watch this movie where he starts as a really young kid. And you're right, it is impressive how long his career has spanned.
Wow! I heard about this film, but all this time, I had never watched it. After seeing this review, I will definitely place it on my streaming list.
It is heartbreaking... And the score is mind-blowing
John Williams scored every Spielberg directed feature film except "The Color Purple", which was scored by its producer, Quincy Jones.
This movie demands a 4K release. It’s one of Spielberg’s most beautiful films.
"Always" is at the top of my list of Spielberg films. I don't know why, but it is. When we get older, our brains change in many ways I guess.
I saw this in the cinema as a kid when the same age as Christian Bale's 'Jim'. It has always left the greatest impression on me ever since. A complete masterpiece. I tear up at the end every time I watch it, it's frankly unavoidable
It’s great to see this movie getting more attention, it’s one of my favorites and your reaction was so satisfying! It blew me away when I first saw it only about four years ago. Good actors are impressive in and of themselves but I’m always especially impressed when children pull it off. Christian Bale has a gift.
I saw this in the theater when it was released. I was only 12 and at that time didn't know or understand much about WWII. Up until that point I had just watched movies to be entertained. I sat there slack jawed joining Jim on his journey. This was the first film that moved me. I learned that film could do more than entertain. It could teach, it could evoke emotions, it could connect with you in a way that changes your life. I still weep each time I watch it. I even cried during this video.
I saw this in theater when I was a kid and it had quite an impact on me. After rewatching it several times, I've come to consider it one of my favorite movies of all time.
This was one of my fav movies when I saw it in theaters in 1988. I loved the John Williams Soundtrack. This was the first time I saw Ben Stiller in a serious drama too.
I had the soundtrack on LP when this film came out. One of my favorite Williams scores.
@@peterkoester7358 It still gives me chills. Some of the music is more like a creepy thriller soundtrack, which I love.
Thanks for the date 1988 .. I remember
@@peterkoester7358that's interesting the lady that sings the Welsh lullaby they had Jim either pantomiming it in the beginning or it's got me confused now because of beautiful blonde lady sang the song in the movie 🍿
Great reaction, as usual. This was Spielberg's followup to "The Color Purple," which I highly recommend you take a look at. These two movies ushered in Spielberg's "serious, grownup movie" phase. Empire of The Sun wasn't a box office success, but it has definitely aged well in thirty years and introduced us to Christian Bale.
The Color Purple is dynamite.
Hey Shan
I just wanted to say that I think you are 1 of the Best Movie Reactors here on TH-cam. I watch a lot of Movie Reaction Videos from other TH-camRS as well and some of them can be pretty toxic and negative when it comes to Movies that they did not enjoy but you aren't. You are always honest, fair, and respectful even to Movies that you did not enjoy and I really appreciate that. You are definitely 1 of the Best.
Of this genre, this is my favorite. The scene on the rooftop is heartwrenching. You talked about him saying he can't remember what his parents look like. To me it's the whole scene. He's reliving childhood, the passions of his early fascination. I believe the last act is a descent into madness. Latching onto his childhood dreams, what else does he have?
What kills me is as he's being carried off the rooftop, he's conjugating what I assume is latin. "I shall be loved..." Niagra Falls every time. And I've seen this movie at least 20 times. Never fails.
My favorite film of all time...the first one I cried at, when I was 7 years old, at the theatre.
I remember watching this movie as a kid and no one else I knew had ever seen and heard of the movie. Not until I got a lot older I started meeting people who else had seen the movie. Still enjoy it.
Outstanding film. Criminally underrated. And one of, if not the first Hollywood film to be shot in China. The extras you referred to were actually locals going about their daily lives.
I saw this in the theatre and all I could think was who the hell is this kid holding his own against Malkovich?!
my favorite Spielberg movie. Not his usual style at all. Malkovich at his best. If you have not seen Lincoln, that would be great reacation
This film gets me every time. I sometimes catch myself humming the song Jamie sings throughout the film. It is incredible. Thank you so much for watching this.
Been at least 30 years since I last saw this film. Terrific movie.
I've been begging people to react to this masterpiece for months. THANK YOU!!!
My favorite scene was when the Japanese airmen saluted him.
One of the most underrated films of all time.
This is one of my favorite movies. It’s criminally underrated and doesn’t get enough attention. Just such a good movie
This film is one of Spielberg's most underrated gems. Great reaction! 👍🏿
Empire of the Sun was filmed at Elstree Studios in the United Kingdom, and on location in Shanghai and Spain. After a year of negotiations, permission was granted for a three-week shoot in early March 1987. It was the first American film shot in Shanghai since the 1940s
This is probably top 5 favourite movies of mine. Christian Bale's performance was incredible, and the final scene with his mother makes me cry every single time, as well as the scene on the watchtower with the doctor. Suo Gan is the lullaby that plays throughout the movie, it's a Welsh lullaby that I know from my childhood so the extra layer of nostalgia that it adds to the emotion of this movie is pretty strong!
I live in the south of Spain in Andalusia on the province of Cádiz an this film was shot on Teebujena a neighbouring village about 15 miles from where I actually live. They built the concentration camp set and they hired.many people from Teebujena as extras. There are many curious facts surrounded the filming. One day the spanish extras got tired of the poor quality of the catering supplied by an English catterig company and they complaint setting a flamenco dance party on the middle of the set. Spielberg was very amused about and he ordered to hire the service of a Spanish caterkng service for the extras.
During the filming Ben Stiller lived on my town Puerto de Santa María because is set neighbouring Teebujena where it was the camp set. On interviews he said he has fond memories about the fun he enjoyed here the night live and the wine and meals of my city.
I remember that soundtrack.....several selections from the film on a 'John Williams Greatest Hits' album I purchased. Love that shot when Jim goes over to touch the Zero, and salute the pilots....& they salute him back.
A powerful film about WWI is the 1957 Stanley Kubrick classic, “Paths of Glory, “ starring Kirk Douglas.
I remember being privileged enough to go see crew showing of this film, in Leicester Square, London. Since that day I have loved this film, and always shed a tear at the final scene. Thank you for being the first to react to this.
World War I started due to an array of alliances between the Entente ( to become the Allies in WWII ) Central Powers ( to become the Axis in WWII ). Keep in mind all the treaties pre-World War I , linking all the countries on each side. The best way to describe it is Dominos. When archduke Ferdinand his wife were shot and killed triggering the first Domino to fall. The treaties were between individual countries where if one country attacked the other will come to their defense. That country has other treaties with other countries basically mutual defense treaties. There was a lot of political tension between the various countries and all it took is that assassination.
WW1 Movie: "1917" is outstanding!
The song Jaimie sings in the choir at the beginning (and solo later on in the film) is "Suo Gan", a traditional Welsh lullaby.
j.g. ballard (whose autobiographical novel this is based on) went on to become one of the leading figures of british new wave science fiction in the 60s and 70s. he's said that the surreal nature of life in the internment camp later helped him to see the more surreal and frightening aspects of "regular" society as well. if you're ever up for a particularly challenging reaction shan, david cronenberg's 1996 adaptation of ballard's novel crash certainly pushes a lot of buttons.
Stevem Spielburg also did "1941." Set during WWII, but just before the American entry.
Empire Of The Sun is one of those movies in Spielberg’s filmography that often gets overlooked but it’s a great movie.
If you’re looking for a good World War One flick, I’d recommend another overlooked Spielberg gem. War Horse (2011).
A lot of the sets of Shanghai is simply the old city itself just a couple years before Urbanization Explosion occurred in China. So Spielberg got lucky there.
Thank you for noticing this movie. It's the best of Spielberg's WWII trilogy.
One of my top 5 all-time favourite movies. I cannot believe that Siskel & Ebert gave it 2 thumbs down. The scene where Jamie and his mom reunite gets me every time. As a mom myself, I get emotional. I cannot imagine the torment those parents went through, not knowing the fate of their children.
In my top 5 films of all time, for sure. So emotional.
I watched this on cable a bunch as a kid. I didn't understand a lot of it and didnt know much about the war. But it doesnt matter. Even as a kid you feel it.
J.G. Ballard grew up to write some of the most imaginative & disturbing fiction. He also wrote Crash, which was adapted into film by David Cronenberg, and High-Rise, directed by Ben Wheatley.
Script by Tom Stoppard from the novel by sci-fi author J.G. Ballard -- a fictionalized version of his childhood and internment. Ballard wrote Crash and Concrete Island.
The absurdist style for which Tom Stoppard is primarily known as a playwright is on prominent display in *Empire of the Sun,* particularly in the scenes where Jim is wandering around the city, and again after Jim and the other prisoners leave the concentration camp.
Good reaction. After this movie, you should put the movie Toro Toro Tora (1970) on your list. It's about the events leading up to the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Has an all star cast and is very historical accurate portrayal according to The History Buff on his channel.
Another type of movie is The Sand Pebbles (1966), starring Steve McQueen, Richard Crenna, Candice Bergen, Richard Attenborough, and Mako. Mako played Conan The Barbarian's wizard friend. Also, The Sand Pebbles was directed by Robert Wise and music by the great Jerry Goldsmith. Need I say more? Thank you.
A wonderful film and great performances from Bale and Malkovich. If you haven't seen it, I recommend the 1992 remake "Of Mice And Men". It stars John Malkovich and Gary Sinise.
I second this. That movie will DEFINITELY make you cry.
P 51! Cadillac of the sky! Horsepowahhhhh!!!
I saw a really good WW1 movie called "Beneath hill 60". It's about the tunneling efforts to place a huge amount of explosives under a German held hill that was being held by 10's of thousands of soldiers.
A good film detailing the origins and diplomatic machinations of WWI is the 3-part BBC production "37 Days" which came out in 2014, the 100th anniversary of WWI - starring Ian Mcdiarmid, Nicholas Farrell, Tim Pigott-Smith, Sinead Cusack.
I saw it on home box office when it was a new movie.never forget it. And a true story..... The woman singing the Welsh lullaby is beautiful.
The person who sings 'Suo Gân," the Welsh lullaby, in EMPIRE OF THE SUN is British boy soprano James Rainbird.
I had forgotten Tom Stoppard wrote the screenplay. Amazing
And let's not forget Spielberg's very first WWII film, 1941.
You forgot the all time classic Spielberg WWII film... 1941. A completely serious and accurate depiction of America's beginning involvement in WWII. Spielberg may have taken a few creative twists and turns... but just a few.
😂
Gallipoli, Paths of Glory or any of the All Quiet versions are worth watching for good WW1 films. For your own benefit there is a seminal BBC documentary called the Great War. It was made in the 60s when a lot of veterans were still alive.
I had a feeling you'd really appreciate this film. I've been suggesting it for some time and I believe you're only the 2nd to check it out. Seems odd, considering it's a Spielberg movie.
I still remember getting goosebumps at the first slo-mo shot of the P-51... Jim's reaction was similar to mine when I first witnessed old warbirds flying in an airshow.
YEEESSSS!!!! FINALLY!! I have suggested this SO many times. Easily my favorite Christian Bale movie after The Prestige and American Psycho.
Paths of Glory by Stanley Kubrick
The American P-51s were the real deal. Many of those planes are owned and still flown by private owners all over the world in Groups like The Commemorative Air Force who do Air Shows all over featuring many fighters and bombers flown during WW2. In fact many P-51s were flown by smaller nations' air forces for decades after the war. So getting some for this movie in 1987 was not that difficult to do.
Never been of my favorite movies. However, I watch it every time it is on for the Welsh lullaby that floats through it. My very favorite tune.
There is a GREAT old documentary called The Prize that is all about the history of oil and how it was a major influence in both World Wars and other geo-politics up until the 90s when it was made. You might have to find it on DVD.
Thanks so much for reacting to this. The camp bombing sequence alone is one of the best things Spielberg has ever done.
Good WW-1 films:
"The Blue Max"
"Hell's Angels"
"All Quiet On The Western Front"
"The Great Waldo Pepper" (takes place after WW-1, but still worth the watch)
The only WW1 movie I can think of is Laurence of Arabia. This does tell something about the Ottoman Empire's fall. Other than that, The King's Man ( 2021 ) is probably the only other movie I can think of that isn't a documentary.
My all-time favorite Christian Bale movie is Newsies. 🥰🥰🥰
Grew up with a huge crush on him, thanks for that movie. 😂
My best friend and I managed to track down his family’s telephone number in Bournemouth. Seeing as this was 1991/92, it was a decent achievement for a couple 15/16 year olds.
We never had the guts to call it. 😂😂😂
Carrying the banner!
The new All Quiet On The Western Front is very good and worth reviewing.
One of my favorite WWI movies is Gallipoli (1981).
I always got this mixed up with Last Emperor as a kid
Which is funny because it was shot in China at the same time as this one. These two were the first Western productions to film in China in many decades.
Malchovich played a really good Lenny in the 1992 adaptation of mice and men with Gary Senise as George
Don't forget Spielberg's other WW2 film which is worth a watch, 1941.
"HORRYWOOOOOOOOD!!!"
🤣😅😂
Nice pick. I remember watching this as a kid rewatching it throughout the years and recently re-watched it a year ago or so. Fantastic movie. I love WWII films anyhow so I always enjoy War films.
The choral song, sung throughout the film is in Welsh.
My favorite tune.
I recommend a Peter Jackson World War 1 documentary: They shall not grow old. Stunning.
Shan, you should react to "A Very Long Engagement" from the same director of Amelie. His depiction of WWI is amazing, and has the same vibe of Amelie, but with the the horrors of the war. Also the cinematography is beautiful and is also starring by Audrey Tautou and Gaspard Ulliel (RIP one year ago)
I'm glad some are re-discovering this beautiful film. Two of his movie that I love that are not that known is this movie and AI. Artificial Intelligence.
usually war movies forget the suffering of civilians.not this one.and that's just one of the many reasons i like it.
Some background as to why you there is a a bunch of Europeans living in absolute luxury with Japanese soldiers just fortified outside: This was the Shanghai International Settlement in which separate American and British enclaves resided within the city for about a century. The same day as the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japan also invaded American and European holdings throughout Asia and the Pacific simultaneously, including the Shanghai Settlement.
Ben Stiller said in an interview that he came up with the idea of Tropic Thunder while doing this movie.