Napoleon

Ridley Scott’s “Napoleon,” a 2023 epic historical drama, intricately portrays the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, highlighting his ascent to power and tumultuous relationship with Empress Joséphine. The flm, directed and produced by Scott and penned by David Scarpa, features Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon and Vanessa Kirby as Joséphine, capturing the essence of their intertwined lives against the backdrop of momentous historical events.

The production of “Napoleon” commenced following Scott’s completion of “The Last Duel” in October 2020, with Joaquin Phoenix announced to portray the titular character. However, the project encountered delays and cast changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in Vanessa Kirby replacing Jodie Comer as Joséphine. Filming kicked off in February 2022 in England and spanned several months, involving Scott’s trusted collaborators, including cinematographer Dariusz Wolski and editor Claire Simpson.

Premiering at Salle Pleyel in Paris on November 14, 2023, “Napoleon” later debuted in the United

States and the United Kingdom on November 22, 2023, through Columbia Pictures and Apple Original Films, distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing, before its streaming release on Apple TV+.

The flm received positive reviews from critics, lauding its compelling battle sequences and standout performances by Phoenix and Kirby. However, criticisms were raised regarding historical inaccuracies, particularly drawing negative feedback from French critics.

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The narrative unfolds amidst the backdrop of the French Revolution in 1793, tracing Napoleon Bonaparte’s journey from a young army offcer witnessing the execution of Queen Marie Antoinette to his commanding role in managing the Siege of Toulon. The flm showcases Napoleon’s strategic prowess, including his suppression of the royalist insurrection and his wooing of aristocratic widow Joséphine.

The dynamic between Napoleon and Joséphine is a central focus, characterized by their passionate but childless marriage. Despite their vibrant relationship,

Napoleon’s expeditions, notably to Egypt, lead to conficts and eventual divorce due to Joséphine’s affair. The narrative portrays Napoleon’s rise to power, from becoming Emperor of the French to strategic triumphs at the Battle of Austerlitz.

The flm delves into the complexities of Napoleon’s personal life, including his divorce from Joséphine and subsequent marriage to Marie Louise of Austria. It vividly depicts his military campaigns, such as the invasion of Russia and the disastrous retreat during the harsh winter, ultimately culminating in his exile to Elba.

Napoleon’s audacious return to power and the dramatic Battle of Waterloo mark the flm’s climax, revealing his defeat and subsequent exile to Saint Helena. The narrative poignantly explores Napoleon’s fnal days on the island, refecting on his legacy and the staggering human cost of his wars.

The flm concludes with Napoleon’s passing in 1821, envisioning a poignant reunion with Joséphine in death, leaving an epilogue highlighting the immense toll of his wars, echoing the tragic consequences of his ambitious conquests.

An epilogue notes that roughly 3 million people died in his wars.

Directed by Ridley Scott

Written by David Scarpa

Produced by Ridley Scott

Kevin J. Walsh

Mark Huffam

Joaquin Phoenix Starring

Joaquin Phoenix

Vanessa Kirby

Tahar Rahim

Running time 157 minutes[3]

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