Film Review: The Last Emperor

I viewed “The Last Emperor” by western director Bernardo Bertolucci, made in 1987. What I particularly like about the film is that it was filmed in the city (not a set). It was also the first film to be authorized by People’s Republic of China to be filmed within the city. The film is completely in English, although it uses Chinese actors. I know that there have been many criticisms regarding the historical accuracy of the film, however, I feel that this film will allow students to understand and see the power of Chinese emperors and the wealth of the family. The film takes place in a time period (20th century) that I do not cover. What I plan on doing is using clips from the beginning of the film (no more than 15 minutes) to show the Chinese Imperial City or the Forbidden City. The importance of the Forbidden City is covered in the 7th grade standards under the development of the imperial state and the accomplishments of the Ming Dynasty. We can discuss the wealth and exclusion of palace life, and the use of eunuchs. I feel this will allow students appreciate the beauty of this great Ming accomplishment.



edited by jsheehan on 8/1/2012
edited by jsheehan on 8/1/2012