After the announcement that Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix were working together again on a historical film, many film fans’ hearts must have beat faster. After all, both are known for really great films. So it’s no wonder that Napoleon was considered an Oscar candidate for this year even before it was released in theaters.
The historical epic can now be seen on Apple TV+ with a streaming subscription.
The Emperor’s New Clothes – Joaquin Phoenix is Napoleon
That’s what it’s about: In the power vacuum of the French Revolution, the Corsican artillery commander Napoleon Bonaparte (Joaquin Phoenix) becomes France’s new hope. In the war he can prove himself by recapturing Toulon and rise to the rank of general. He puts down a royalist rebellion within the borders of France. Soon more and more people want to see him at the top of the country.
In addition to his passion for his campaigns of conquest, one woman in particular has his attention. Joséphine de Beauharnais (Vanessa Kirby) is a widow whose first husband was executed after the revolution. But the stormy love and the never-ending battle for France tear at Napoleon until he finds himself on the brink of destruction.
Napoleon is nominated for 3 Oscars – but not for Best Film
Ridley Scott has been nominated for Best Director at the Oscars three times. However, he hasn’t won the golden boy yet. Joaquin Phoenix, on the other hand, was finally able to accept the award for his performance as the Joker in his fourth nomination. That Napoleon as a candidate for the Oscars was therefore not particularly surprising.
But both men can no longer count on an award. The categories in which Napoleon is nominated have nothing to do with the actors, nor are they best director or even best film. Instead there are Costume design, visual effects and production designkeeping their fingers crossed for an award.
The Director’s Cut is still coming – and is almost twice as long as the theatrical version
The war epic about the controversial French emperor has not only found fans. There was harsh criticism of Scott’s production, particularly in France. The film could get a second chance with the director’s cut. This will include an additional two hours of film. This extends the Running time to a total of 4.5 hours. It is not yet known when exactly the Director’s Cut will be released. Until then, Apple TV+ subscribers can stream the theatrical version and see for themselves.
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