Ridley Scott's 2023 film "Napoleon" is an epic historical drama centered around Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power and his relationship with Empress Joséphine. Set against the backdrop of the French Revolution, the film begins with a young Napoleon witnessing Marie Antoinette's execution and moves through key moments like the Siege of Toulon and the Battle of Austerlitz. Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of Napoleon deviates from traditional glorifications, offering a critical view of his character as impulsive, thin-skinned, and indifferent to the consequences of his actions.
The film challenges traditional historical narratives by adopting the "Not-So-Great Man" theory, casting Napoleon not as a genius or tyrant, but as a flawed individual driven by ego and insecurity. This approach is evident in scenes where Napoleon's fragility and ego are highlighted, such as his outbursts and self-centered proclamations. The film's satirical tone is further emphasized through its portrayal of Napoleon's interactions and declarations, showcasing his fragile masculinity and self-absorption.
A significant focus of "Napoleon" is on the protagonist's relationship with Joséphine, portrayed as a key influence in his life. Their complex dynamic reveals a more intimate side of Napoleon, yet the film struggles to balance this personal story with the broader context of his military campaigns. The narrative implies that Joséphine's influence was pivotal in shaping Napoleon's confidence and approach to warfare.
However, the film has faced criticism for its narrative and character development. Described as having a shallow screenplay, "Napoleon" is said to lack emotional depth and fail to convincingly connect major life events of its subject. While the battle sequences are lauded for their technical brilliance, the film struggles with conveying the emotional and personal aspects of Napoleon and Joséphine's relationship.
Phoenix's interpretation of Napoleon has also been a point of contention. His portrayal leans towards the actor's previous roles as melancholic loners, diverging from a historically accurate depiction of the famous leader. This approach has led to a portrayal that lacks the ambitious, workaholic, and intellectual traits typically associated with Napoleon.
In summary, Ridley Scott's "Napoleon" presents a unique perspective on a famous historical figure, combining impressive battle scenes with a critical examination of Napoleon's character. While the film excels in its technical execution, it falls short in terms of character depth and narrative cohesion, offering a disjointed yet intriguing portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte and his tumultuous era.
