Apr
Empire Of The Sun is a 1987 Australian coming-of-age epic directed by renowned filmmaker, Steven Spielberg. It tells the story of two young boys who struggle to survive and reunite after they are separated in World War II-era Shanghai. Here are some lesser-known facts about this iconic film:
1. The movie was shot entirely in Australia with no scenes being filmed on location in China.
2. The original title of the film was “Empire Of The Sun”, but director Steven Spielberg changed it to “The Adventure Of Jim” for release in the United States, believing that American audiences wouldn’t be familiar with the book or its title.
3. Christian Bale auditioned for the lead role but lost out to newcomer, John Malkovich.
4. The movie’s soundtrack was composed by acclaimed film composer, John Williams.
5. Spielberg used advanced special effects for the scenes of Japanese airplanes and later received an Academy Award nomination for Best Visual Effects.
6. The screenplay was adapted from J.G Ballard’s semi-autobiographical novel of the same name.
7. The movie earned a total gross of $22 million worldwide at the box office, making it one of Spielberg’s lowest-grossing films to date.
8. Empire Of The Sun marked the first collaboration between iconic producers Kathleen Kennedy and Frank Marshall who would go on to produce many more successful films together in the future including Jurassic Park (1993) and Raiders Of The Lost Ark (1981).
9. Spielberg was denied permission to film in China, so he had to recreate the war-torn streets of Shanghai on a soundstage in Australia.
10. The movie won several awards and accolades including BAFTA Awards for Best Cinematography and Best Costume Design, as well as Academy Award nominations for Best Art Direction and Best Original Score.
These are just some of the lesser-known facts about Empire Of The Sun that make it an unforgettable classic today. Whether you have seen the movie or not, this knowledge provides insight into one of Steven Spielberg’s most iconic works of art. If you haven’t seen it yet, be sure to check out this timeless masterpiece!
