Empire of the Sun Blu-ray Review

Warner Bros.' 1080p/AVC-encoded video transfer of "Empire of the Sun" delivers a high-definition experience that surpasses any previous home video release. The film is presented in its original 1.85:1 aspect ratio, displaying a level of refinement and defining resolution that enhances the viewing experience markedly. Close-ups reveal ample textural nuance, allowing for a clear appreciation of complexional structure in the actors' faces and visible delineation in clothing and objects. The splendid cinematography, characterized by beautiful vistas of open expanses and natural daylight illumination, presents varying levels of delineation and depth, which consistently look impressive.

The transfer maintains a pleasingly filmic quality, staying true to Allen Daviau's subdued but naturalistic palette. Skin tones are exceptionally lifelike and well-saturated, with primary colors popping when intended, contributing to an overall consistent contrast. Black levels, while occasionally leaning towards dusty charcoal tones rather than rich blacks, do not distract from the dreamlike atmosphere Spielberg evokes. By avoiding over-boosted contrast, crush is mitigated, and shadow details remain satisfying in depth and darkness. Fine textures are impeccably resolved with crisp edges and a faint, pleasant grain veneer that enriches the visual experience.

Moreover, the transfer boasts meticulous cleanliness in terms of digital artifacts. Issues such as artifacting, ringing, banding, aliasing, and errant noise are notably absent, offering a pristine viewing spectacle. As such, "Empire of the Sun" stands as one of Warner's exemplary catalog presentations, showcasing the studio’s commitment to preserving the director's vision with remarkable fidelity.

The DTS-HD Master Audio 5.1 surround track for "Empire of the Sun" offers a solid audio presentation that adeptly preserves the film’s original sound design. Dialogue is rendered with exceptional clarity and discernible intonation, maintaining intelligibility and prioritization throughout the film. The front-heavy mixing makes excellent use of the left, right, and center channels, allowing for seamless integration of panning sequences. However, despite these strengths, some dated elements in the recording do limit the dynamic range. The score by John Williams benefits from this thoughtful audio mix, with the lower bass frequencies being sufficiently bolstered by the LFE channel, enhancing the impact of key elements in both action and musical sequences.

Surround activity, while not continuous, provides occasional moments of discernible spatial ambiance and discrete sounds that enhance front-to-rear directional pans. Ample rear speaker utilization ensures a reasonably immersive experience. Nonetheless, hushed scenes sometimes engage the audio channels more assertively than chaotic sequences, a detail that some may find distracts from an otherwise balanced sound experience. LFE output is more than adequate but occasionally thin, lacking the raw punch required by certain intense scenes, although many sound impressive. Additionally, a few scenes, such as Jamie's visit with Basie in the hospital, present an obvious noise floor. Despite these minor concerns, the track remains respectful of the film’s original acoustic intentions, delivering a commendable audio experience that aligns well with its visual narrative.

The Blu-ray extras for "Empire of the Sun" offer an enriching deep dive into both the historical context of the film and its production. "The China Odyssey" is an exhaustive 49-minute documentary narrated by Martin Sheen, featuring candid behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with survivors from Shanghai's occupation. This doc provides rich insights into Steven Spielberg's meticulous approach to filmmaking and his collaboration with a young Christian Bale. "Warner at War," a 47-minute bonus DVD, examines Warner Bros.' wartime efforts to influence public opinion through anti-Nazi films. Completing the package is the original theatrical trailer, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the movie’s promotional past.

Extras included in this disc:

The China Odyssey: In-depth documentary narrated by Martin Sheen, exploring the film's historical and production aspects. Warner at War: Examination of Warner Bros.' contributions to anti-Nazi propaganda and morale-boosting during World War II. Theatrical Trailer: Original promotional trailer for "Empire of the Sun."

Based on J.G. Ballard's semi-autobiographical novel, "Empire of the Sun" tells the harrowing story of a privileged boy, James Graham, who is torn from his family and thrust into the dire realities of wartime survival. Spielberg's rendition of this narrative is a remarkable analysis of perception versus reality, as seen through the eyes of a child. Depicting Graham's experiences in a Japanese internment camp, Spielberg cleverly manipulates the medium to showcase how memories and imagination interplay within young Jim’s mind, which can distort our understanding of reality.

Spielberg’s direction is profoundly understated, masterfully presenting surreal elements that reveal deeper truths about human resilience and denial. Key scenes, such as the surreal vision of his parents seeping into an idealized memory or the almost mythic portrayal of John Malkovich's character Basie, perfectly illustrate how Jim’s experiences and perceptions are affected by his surroundings. Spielberg resists traditional cinematic cues, instead trusting the audience to decipher these subtleties. This approach underscores the film’s continuous dialogue between fantasy and harsh reality, accentuating themes like escapism and the emotional evolution of a young boy amidst immense turmoil.

Technically, "Empire of the Sun" stands out with Spielberg’s camera work often described as "a font of dishonesty," creating an intentionally unreliable narrative that enhances the thematic depth of the film. Misinterpreted by many critics at its release, the movie was initially criticized for its perceived lack of realism; however, its seemingly fantastical elements are deliberate, reflecting Jim’s subconscious coping mechanisms. Spielberg’s collaboration with screenwriter Tom Stoppard results in a rich tapestry exploring denial and nostalgia, thereby transforming childhood memories into cinematic explorations of blurred reality. The film achieves what few can: It serves as both an introspective look at individual memory and a larger commentary on human nature’s inclination toward escapism during times of grave adversity.

"Empire of the Sun" on Blu-ray is an extraordinary release that revisits Spielberg’s often overlooked masterpiece with a presentation that makes this rediscovery utterly worthwhile. This Blu-ray edition offers a remarkable AV presentation that stands out, providing a visually rich and emotionally moving re-experience of this film. Spielberg's meticulous direction and Stoppard's screenplay shine through with enhanced clarity and depth, revealing layers of storytelling and emotion that might have been missed upon earlier viewings. The film, seen through a fresh lens of appreciation, truly emerges as richer and more profound.

The visual fidelity on this Blu-ray is nothing short of impressive. The transfer captures the film's haunting beauty and epic scale, translating it into a high-definition experience that respects the original cinematic vision. Despite the disappointment of only having two Standard Definition documentaries included in the special features, the main offering remains unaffected. The audio is equally exemplary, delivering a soundscape that enhances the immersive experience. Dialogues are crisp, and John Williams' evocative score is delivered with impeccable clarity, complementing the visual storytelling perfectly.

In conclusion, Warner's Blu-ray release of "Empire of the Sun" is a testament to the enduring power of Spielberg's art. It’s an invitation to re-evaluate a cinematic gem that may have been unfairly overlooked by critics in its initial release. This edition brings forth the film’s true essence, urging both new viewers and long-time fans to see it in a new light. As one review pointedly reminds us: it's never too late to rediscover a buried classic.