A monumental cinematic achievement, hailed by fans as “one of the last truly great epics ever made,” is now readily accessible for home viewing. This 1987 masterpiece, “The Last Emperor,” stands as a testament to historical filmmaking, boasting a stellar 86% critic score and an even more impressive 88% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, where it’s frequently lauded as a “masterpiece.”
A Life of Imperial Grandeur and Tumultuous Change
Based on a truly remarkable true story, Bernardo Bertolucci’s acclaimed film delves into the life of Emperor Puyi, the eleventh and final monarch of China’s Qing dynasty. The narrative unfolds through Puyi’s recollections from a prison cell, where he was held as a war criminal by the Red Army in 1950. His memories transport viewers back to a lavish childhood within the confines of the Forbidden City, a place where he ascended to the throne of China at the tender age of two in 1908.
However, the grandeur of his early years was irrevocably altered by the winds of revolution sweeping across the nation. The young emperor was compelled to abdicate, marking the end of over two millennia of imperial rule in China. Despite this monumental shift, Puyi was initially permitted to remain living within the opulent walls of the Forbidden City, a surreal existence for a deposed child monarch.
The Influence of an Unconventional Tutor
A pivotal figure in Puyi’s isolated world arrived in 1919: Scottish scholar and diplomat Reginald Johnston, portrayed by the legendary Peter O’Toole. Johnston was tasked with serving as Puyi’s tutor, introducing him to a world of knowledge beyond the strict confines of his Confucian education. Subjects like mathematics, political science, and English were brought into the young emperor’s life for the very first time, offering a glimpse of the wider world.
An Unprecedented Oscar Triumphant
“The Last Emperor” achieved a remarkable feat at the Academy Awards, clinching an astounding nine Oscars – every single award for which it was nominated. This included prestigious wins for Best Picture, Best Director, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score, alongside accolades for its stunning costuming and art direction.
Beyond its Oscar success, the film also garnered significant recognition at other major awards ceremonies. It secured three Baftas from eleven nominations, with Peter O’Toole receiving a nomination for his compelling performance. The Golden Globes also recognised its brilliance, awarding it four wins and a nomination for its lead actor. The film’s evocative score also earned a Grammy Award, further cementing its status as a cinematic triumph.
Where to Watch This Epic Saga
For those eager to experience this sweeping historical drama, “The Last Emperor” is currently available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video. Immerse yourself in the extraordinary life of Emperor Puyi and witness a pivotal era in Chinese history unfold on screen.
