Ridley Scott's 2023 film Napoleon, a sprawling historical epic, is experiencing a significant resurgence on streaming platforms after a lukewarm reception in theaters. The film, which chronicles Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power, currently holds the fourth position on Apple TV's Top Movies chart.
Upon its theatrical release, Napoleon grossed $61.5 million in the United States and Canada, with an additional $160.9 million internationally, totaling $222.4 million worldwide. Despite its considerable runtime and Scott's established track record with historical epics like Gladiator, the film did not meet box office expectations.
However, its availability on Apple TV Plus has introduced the film to a new audience. Starring Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon Bonaparte and Vanessa Kirby as his wife Joséphine de Beauharnais, the biopic has been praised for its attempt to balance historical accuracy with dramatic narrative. Phoenix's portrayal of the complex emperor, encompassing his megalomania and charisma, has been particularly highlighted as a standout element.
Screenwriter David Scarpa's research delved into Napoleon's life, with a particular focus on his volatile relationship with Joséphine. While the film has faced criticism from some French critics and audiences regarding historical inaccuracies and uneven pacing, its characterizations and dramatic scope have resonated with viewers on streaming.
For those seeking a more in-depth look, an extended director's cut of Napoleon is available on Apple TV Plus. This version, running 205 minutes, provides further exploration of the French Terror period and offers more detailed background for Joséphine's character. The film's current popularity on streaming suggests a strong audience interest in historical dramas, even those that did not initially achieve commercial success in cinemas.
Napoleon is now streaming on Apple TV Plus.