Empire of the Sun Franchise Guide: Movie Facts and Legacy

Empire of the Sun (1987) — an evergreen reference for this movie: the essentials, the cast, where to watch and what to watch next. To survive in a world at war, he must find a strength greater than all the events that surround him.

Where to watch

TMDB's U.S. watch-provider data lists Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Fandango At Home, Spectrum On Demand. Availability changes by country and date, so check your streaming app before watching.

Cast

Christian Bale as Jim; John Malkovich as Basie; Miranda Richardson as Mrs. Victor; Nigel Havers as Dr. Rawlins; Joe Pantoliano as Frank Demarest; Leslie Phillips as Maxton; Masatô Ibu as Sgt. Nagata; Emily Richard as Jim's Mother

About Empire of the Sun

Jamie Graham, a privileged English boy, is living in Shanghai when the Japanese invade and force all foreigners into prison camps. Jamie is captured with an American sailor, who looks out for him while they are in the camp together. Even though he is separated from his parents and in a hostile environment, Jamie maintains his dignity and youthful spirit, providing a beacon of hope for the others held captive with him.

More like Empire of the Sun

• The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas
• The Great Escape
• The Last Emperor
• The Zone of Interest
• Prisoner of War
• The Monuments Men
• They Were Expendable
• The Island on Bird Street

Figures and availability come from public TMDB data and are provided as a sourced reference.