The Last Emperor (1987) - Critical Reviews

Synopsis

This sweeping account of the life of Pu-Yi, the last emperor of China, follows the leader's tumultuous reign. After being captured by the Red Army as a war criminal in 1950, Pu-Yi recalls his childhood from prison. He remembers his lavish youth in the Forbidden City, where he was afforded every luxury but unfortunately sheltered from the outside world and complex political situation surrounding him. As revolution sweeps through China, the world Pu-Yi knew is dramatically upended.

Critical Acclaim

The 1987 release of The Last Emperor marked a significant moment in cinema, earning widespread critical acclaim for its grand storytelling and visual splendor. Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, the film was praised for its meticulous attention to detail and sweeping narrative, which brought the life of China's last imperial ruler, Pu-Yi, to the silver screen. Critics hailed the film as a cinematic triumph, applauding its ability to capture the opulence and historical depth of early 20th-century China. It was also noted for its groundbreaking use of location shooting in the Forbidden City, a first for a Western production.

Renowned critic Roger Ebert lauded the film, awarding it four stars and describing it as "an extraordinary visual experience." Pauline Kael of The New Yorker praised Bertolucci's direction, highlighting the film's "epic scale" and "emotional depth." In modern evaluations, The Last Emperor holds a strong 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, demonstrating its continued resonance with audiences and critics alike. The film's intricate portrayal of Pu-Yi's life, from emperor to commoner, remains a point of praise in contemporary reviews.

The Last Emperor left an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape, winning nine Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Its sweeping narrative and stunning visuals have secured its place in cinematic history, influencing subsequent historical dramas with its grand scale and attention to detail. The film's success reinforced the viability of large-scale international co-productions, paving the way for future collaborations between Hollywood and foreign film industries. Its legacy endures, with The Last Emperor frequently cited as a quintessential example of historical epic filmmaking.