Ridley Scott’s Historical Epic ‘Napoleon’ Trailer Released, Starring Joaquin Phoenix
Ridley Scott is venturing back into the historical action epic genre with his upcoming film ‘Napoleon.’ The film’s first trailer has been released, showcasing Scott’s trademark sweeping visuals and reuniting him with his ‘Gladiator’ star, Joaquin Phoenix, who won an Oscar for his performance.
‘Napoleon’ is described as a captivating portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte’s relentless journey to power, exploring his addictive and volatile relationship with his true love, Josephine, played by Vanessa Kirby. The movie will highlight Napoleon’s visionary military and political tactics through dynamic battle sequences that are said to be some of the most impressive ever filmed.
In the trailer, Phoenix’s Bonaparte declares, “I’m the first to admit when I make a mistake, I simply never do.” Multiple lavish battlefield scenes are showcased, depicting the French military commander’s rise to prominence during the French Revolution and his subsequent campaigns as the Emperor of the French.
Alongside Phoenix, the film features a talented ensemble cast including Ben Miles, Matthew Needham, Tahar Rahim, Youssef Kerkour, and Phil Cornwell.
Accompanying the trailer release, the film also unveiled a poster with the tagline, “He came from nothing. He conquered everything.”
The fascination with a definitive Napoleon biopic has persisted in Hollywood for decades. Stanley Kubrick famously started developing a project in 1969, but financial setbacks hindered its progress. Scott has expressed his long-standing fascination with Napoleon, stating that the emperor’s story revolves around his romantic war with his adulterous wife, Josephine. Scott believes that Phoenix is the perfect actor to embody the complex character of Napoleon, following his exceptional portrayal of Commodus in ‘Gladiator.’
Interestingly, the film was initially titled ‘Baggage,’ based on the obscure expression, “There is a general’s staff hidden in every soldier’s kitbag.” This phrase highlights the potential for greatness in every individual who serves in the military.
‘Napoleon’ is a joint production between Sony Pictures and Apple Original Films. It is scheduled to be released in theaters on November 22, 2023, by Sony Pictures. Subsequently, it will be available for streaming on Apple TV+ at a later date. Fans of epic historical dramas can look forward to witnessing Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix collaborating once again to bring the legendary figure of Napoleon Bonaparte to life on the big screen.