In what is a masterstroke of collaborative genius, director Ridley Scott teams helms the latest biographical piece on one of history’s most prolific and successful leaders, with Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role.
The size and scale of the film is evident in the large scale battles, with evidently no expense spared in these gigantic wars. But ultimately, the trailer highlights the interpersonal relationship between the French leader and Josephine (Vanessa Kirby) as the linchpin and key narrative device.
The versatility of Scott is undeniable with a suite of films that are as diverse as Phoenix’ own film catalogue, but far more extensive from ALIEN (1979), BLADE RUNNER (1982) and BLACK RAIN (1989), to BLACK HAWK DOWN (2001) and PROMETHEUS (2012) – this is yet a another demonstration of his broad expertise in modern cinema.
Given that this film is clearly a character study, as much as it is a historical war epic the presence of Phoenix with his deep husky voice and unstable demeanour will no doubt bring a certain gravitas to the role; which might clinch him an Academy Award nomination.
“Napoleon” is a spectacle-filled action epic that details the checkered rise and fall of the iconic French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix. Against a stunning backdrop of large-scale filmmaking orchestrated by legendary director Ridley Scott, the film captures Bonaparte’s relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his one true love, Josephine, showcasing his visionary military and political tactics against some of the most dynamic practical battle sequences ever filmed.
Napoleon will release in U.S. theaters on November 22 before heading to Apple TV+.
