Every Steven Spielberg Movie Ranked From Worst To Best

17. Empire Of The Sun (1987)

Empire Of The Sun
Warner Bros.

This story of a young British boy (Christian Bale) who becomes separated from his family during Japan's invasion of China in WWII is a tonally perfect project for the director - which was originally intended for David Lean, interestingly enough - melding the horrors of war with a genuinely heartfelt tale of endurance and survival.

Like so many of Spielberg's movies it's about 20 minutes too long, but thanks to a sharp script from legendary playwright Tom Stoppard - adapting J.G. Ballard's rich 1984 novel - it's still a thoroughly engaging sit.

Christian Bale gives an early hint here that he might be one to watch, delivering one of the best child performances from any Spielberg movie at the mere age of 13. Supporting turns by John Malkovich and Miranda Richardson seal the deal. Oh, and Ben Stiller has a cameo in it.

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Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes). General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.