Before achieving their later fame, Ben Stiller and Christian Bale appeared together in Steven Spielberg’s 1987 World War II drama Empire of the Sun. This early project provided a platform for both actors, especially highlighting Ben Stiller’s early role in Empire of the Sun, set against the backdrop of wartime Shanghai where a young British boy is separated from his parents and must adapt to survive.
A Noteworthy Collaboration Between Bale and Stiller in Spielberg’s Underrated Film
Empire of the Sun marked a significant point in the early careers of both Christian Bale and Ben Stiller. Directed by Steven Spielberg and adapted from J.G. Ballard’s novel, this film is distinct from traditional war movies by focusing less on combat and more on the coming-of-age journey of a child, Jim Graham, caught in the chaos following the outbreak of World War II. Unlike Spielberg’s later war epic Saving Private Ryan, Empire of the Sun is reflective, emotional, and centers on personal growth amid conflict.
Released in 1987, Empire of the Sun was not a major box office success, earning moderate returns and favorable critical reviews, but it has since become one of Spielberg’s more overlooked works. For many within the cast, including young Christian Bale and Ben Stiller, the film opened pathways to remarkable futures in the industry.
Early Beginnings for Christian Bale and Ben Stiller
For Christian Bale, Empire of the Sun was a transformative step in his career. Cast at just 12 years old as Jim Graham, Bale embraced the complexities of a child forced to leave his privileged life suddenly when war erupts and Shanghai is thrown into turmoil. Jim’s experience becomes more harrowing as he is separated from his family and must fend for himself. The role required an impressive emotional range, which Bale delivered, immediately showcasing his ability as a child actor.
This film was only Bale’s second appearance on screen, but it solidified his reputation for taking on challenging material early in life. Within the story, Jim attempts to create a sense of belonging among a group of American expatriates operating as a criminal gang in the internment camp. Basie, portrayed by John Malkovich, leads the group, and among the American expatriate soldiers is Dainty, played by Ben Stiller. Stiller’s part, though small, was a stepping stone—Empire of the Sun was only his second film, following Hot Pursuit earlier that year.
Stiller’s brief presence in Empire of the Sun came shortly before his stand-up and television breakthrough, including a stint on Saturday Night Live and his acclaimed The Ben Stiller Show. His later career would soar with Reality Bites, and he would cement comedic stardom in films like There’s Something About Mary. Despite being recognized mostly for his comedy, Stiller’s filmography spans both acting and directing, displaying a multi-faceted career that began, in part, with this dramatic early performance.
Bale, meanwhile, continued to evolve as an actor. After Empire of the Sun, he garnered attention with American Psycho, transitioning into adult roles and paving the way for his iconic portrayal of Batman in Christopher Nolan’s acclaimed Dark Knight trilogy. Bale ultimately earned an Oscar for The Fighter, adding to his critical acclaim.
Bale’s Performance Demonstrated His Star Potential From a Young Age
Empire of the Sun demanded much from its youthful lead, and Bale rose to the occasion, taking on a role large in complexity and size. Jim Graham’s journey involved maintaining the innocence and naivety of a child facing sudden hardship while also stepping up to survive harrowing events. This required a delicate balance, and Bale was notable for achieving it convincingly. He portrayed both the confusion and fear of a boy suddenly alone, as well as a growing resourcefulness as Jim adapts to life within the camp.
As the film progresses, Jim shifts from bewilderment to resilience, learning to navigate the dangers of a wartime environment while never losing his youthful characteristics. At moments, he gets caught up in the adventure as though playing war, yet always anchored by the pressing reality of his situation. This mix of fear, excitement, and realism made Bale’s performance striking for such a young artist.
His success in Empire of the Sun established a strong foundation, foreshadowing Bale’s versatility in landmark roles later in his career. Taking on physically and emotionally demanding characters, from Patrick Bateman in American Psycho to Bruce Wayne in the Batman franchise, Bale continually displayed a commitment to his craft—an approach that originated with his standout performance in this early Spielberg drama.
The Cast That Brought Empire of the Sun to Life
Christian Bale took center stage as Jim Graham, a British boy navigating the destruction of comfort and security in wartime Shanghai. John Malkovich played Basie, the resourceful leader of the expatriate group in the internment camp. Miranda Richardson was cast as Mrs. Victor, lending support and gravitas, while Nigel Havers portrayed Dr. Rawlins, providing medical care and guidance to those within the camp. Together, this cast contributed to the rich tapestry of characters surrounding Jim throughout his ordeal.
Legacy and Lasting Impact of an Underrated Classic
Empire of the Sun may not be the most discussed entry in Steven Spielberg’s filmography, yet its influence on the careers of Christian Bale and Ben Stiller cannot be overstated. For both, it showcased their potential at the very beginning and offered a unique, emotional take on the experience of war—one that would help shape future performances and project choices. As time passes, the film stands as a testament to early promise realized and a reminder of how unexpected casting choices, such as Ben Stiller’s early role in Empire of the Sun, can result in a rich legacy within cinema.
