Napoleon
Napoleon
An epic that details the chequered rise and fall of French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte and his relentless journey to power through the prism of his addictive, volatile relationship with his wife, Josephine.
Kevin Ward reviewedJuly 1, 2025
Extended Director’s Cut
Full disclosure: I never watched the theatrical release. I only ever saw a pre-release test screening and now this 3.5 hr director’s cut. I still really love this movie. So darkly funny. Phoenix’s portrayal of Napoleon as a petulant ruler, constantly overcome by his lasciviousness—specifically his lust for Josephine (Vanessa Kirby). (Though who can blame him). Gorgeous looking film all around, recreating some of the iconic imagery of history paintings (Napoleon Crossing the Alps, The Coronation of Napoleon, and more). I’m very curious about how people like this version as compared to the theatrical release. I don’t really have an interest in checking out the theatrical version now that I have this though.