The Last Emperor (1987) is an epic biographical drama directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, depicting the life of Puyi, the final Emperor of China.
The film is based on Puyi's autobiography, "From Emperor to Citizen," and was co-written by Bertolucci and Mark Peploe. It stars John Lone as Puyi, along with notable performances by Peter O'Toole, Joan Chen, and Ruocheng Ying. The film is significant for being the first Western feature film authorized to be shot in the Forbidden City in Beijing, showcasing its rich historical and cultural backdrop.
The narrative of The Last Emperor spans Puyi's life from his ascension to the throne at the age of three to his eventual imprisonment and political rehabilitation by the Chinese Communist Party. The film opens in 1950 with Puyi's arrival at a prison, where he attempts suicide but is saved by the prison governor. The story unfolds through a series of flashbacks, illustrating Puyi's childhood in the Forbidden City, his education by Scottish tutor Reginald Johnston (O'Toole), and his later life as a puppet emperor in the Japanese-controlled state of Manchukuo. The film poignantly explores themes of power, identity, and the impact of historical forces on individual lives.
Released in November 1987, The Last Emperor received widespread acclaim and achieved significant commercial success, grossing approximately $44 million against a budget of $23.8 million. At the 60th Academy Awards, the film won all nine Oscars for which it was nominated, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay. It also garnered several other prestigious awards, including BAFTA and Golden Globe accolades. The film's cinematography by Vittorio Storaro and its score, co-composed by Ryuichi Sakamoto, David Byrne, and Cong Su, were particularly praised, contributing to its overall artistic impact.
The Last Emperor remains a landmark film in both Chinese and Western cinema, celebrated for its lush visuals, compelling storytelling, and historical significance. Its exploration of Puyi's complex character and the turbulent history of China during the 20th century continues to resonate with audiences, making it a classic in the realm of biographical filmmaking.