NAPOLEON is a historical epic chronicling the rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte, portrayed by Joaquin Phoenix. The film traces his journey from a young, ambitious Corsican artillery officer during the French Revolution to his meteoric rise as a military genius and Emperor of the French, culminating in his exile and downfall. It focuses on key moments: his early victories at Toulon and the Italian Campaigns, his coup of 18 Brumaire, and his coronation in 1804. The narrative intertwines his volatile personal life, particularly his obsessive and tumultuous relationship with Joséphine de Beauharnais (Vanessa Kirby), with his relentless pursuit of power.

The film depicts Napoleon’s strategic brilliance in battles like Austerlitz, juxtaposed with his growing paranoia and hubris. His disastrous invasion of Russia in 1812 marks a turning point, leading to his abdication in 1814, brief exile to Elba, and return during the Hundred Days, culminating in his defeat at Waterloo in 1815. Exiled again to St. Helena, Napoleon reflects on his legacy as a transformative yet tragic figure.

NAPOLEON was released on November 22, 2023.