Entertainment Blog #203 | Napoleon [2023] - Woke up my History Nerd...

When I was learning History back in my O/L days, I really loved to study about the sailors who broadened the boundaries of World Map. Magellan, Columbus, Vasco de Gama, and Napoleon are some of them. The text books are limited in information. But in those days, we didn't have money to look on the internet to search for information. And now, there's a new movie to refresh my History nerd from back in O/L days..

"Napoleon," an epic historical drama directed and produced by Ridley Scott, was released on November 22, 2023, in the United States and the United Kingdom by Sony Pictures Releasing. Joaquin Phoenix stars as Napoleon Bonaparte, and Vanessa Kirby plays Josephine. The film, written by David Scarpa, began production in February 2022 in England, with Ridley Scott working alongside cinematographer Dariusz Wolski and editor Claire Simpson, among others. Despite mixed reviews, the film received praise for its depiction of historical events and performances, particularly Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of the iconic French leader.

The film "Napoleon" is set during the French Revolution and introduces a young army officer, Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Joaquin Phoenix. As historical events such as Marie Antoinette's beheading and the Siege of Toulon unfold, the narrative focuses on Napoleon's strategic prowess and meteoric rise in the military ranks. The film depicts the complexities of his personal life, including his courtship and marriage to Joséphine de Beauharnais, played by Vanessa Kirby. The couple faces challenges, such as Napoleon's military expeditions and Joséphine's infidelity, which eventually leads to divorce.

The film's middle section delves into Napoleon's rise to power, from becoming First Consul following a coup to his coronation as Emperor of France in 1804. His dominance stems from political manoeuvring, alliances, and victories in battles such as Austerlitz. However, the film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of war, specifically the devastating invasion of Russia in 1812 and the subsequent retreat, which resulted in significant losses.

The film's middle section delves into Napoleon's rise to power, from becoming First Consul following a coup to his coronation as Emperor of France in 1804. His dominance stems from political manoeuvring, alliances, and victories in battles such as Austerlitz. However, the film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of war, specifically the devastating invasion of Russia in 1812 and the subsequent retreat, which resulted in significant losses.

The final act centers around Napoleon's return from exile, his reunion with Joséphine, which is cut short by her death, and the climactic Battle of Waterloo. The film meticulously recreates this historic encounter, focusing on Wellington's tactical brilliance and Napoleon's eventual defeat. The narrative concludes with his exile to Saint Helena, emphasizing his banter with children, the writing of his memoirs, and his death in 1821, implying a sense of melancholy and reflection in the latter stages of his life.

The critical reception for "Napoleon" has been mixed. While the film was praised for its impressive battle sequences, Joaquin Phoenix's performance as Napoleon, and overall grand scale, it was also criticised for its pacing, tone, and historical inaccuracies. Some reviewers praised director Ridley Scott's bravura set pieces and slyly funny approach, while others found the film's runtime division and creative choices less appealing. The film's portrayal of Napoleon's complex relationships and historical events was scrutinised, with both positive and negative feedback on the execution of specific scenes and the overall narrative structure. The conflicting critical reactions highlight the ambitious attempt to capture the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, a figure of enormous historical significance.

"Napoleon" has earned $61.3 million in the United States and Canada, as well as $152.8 million in other territories, for a global total of $214.1 million. The film's box office performance is not that high but it's OK, indicating a high level of commercial success.

"Napoleon" is a grand historical drama with Joaquin Phoenix giving a memorable performance as Napoleon Bonaparte. The film's epic scale, impressive battle sequences, and examination of Napoleon's rise to power and personal life have received both praise and criticism. While some critics praised the film's ambitious storytelling and set pieces, others questioned its pace, tone, and historical accuracy. The film's approach to portraying Napoleon's complex character and historical events received mixed reviews, implying that audiences and critics responded differently. Nonetheless, the film's strong box office performance demonstrates a high level of interest and engagement among viewers worldwide.