Ridley Scott Historical Epic Finds New Life On Apple TV+

No stranger to a good old-fashioned historical drama, Scott tackled the real-life story of Napoleon Bonaparte, as he rose through the ranks to become the Emperor of France. Joaquin Phoenix stars as Napoleon in the feature that’s now streaming on Apple TV+, pouring his heart and soul into the portrayal of the infamous historical icon. Joining the actor as Napoleon’s wife, Joséphine, is Mission Impossible franchise star, Vanessa Kirby.

In Napoleon, Apple TV+ audiences will watch as the ego-driven commander begins his climb to the top of power from one of the country’s lowest moments. The opening scene in the film kicks off with the beheading of Marie Antoinette, which time stamps the movie’s beginning as the year 1793 during the French Revolution. Following Napoleon’s conquests around Europe and overseas, the story also illuminates the incredibly toxic relationship that Napoleon had with his wife. 

Whether you’re familiar with or completely aloof about the French Emperor’s reign, there’s likely more to be learned from Scott’s historical epic. And, at nearly three hours in length, Napoleon is perfect to watch from the comfort of your own home on Apple TV+. While the title was essentially made to be watched on the big screen, especially for the incredibly well-choreographed battle scenes, being able to press pause, take a bathroom break, and pick up a snack is key to enjoying the experience.

Speaking of those battle scenes, along with nailing down the story of the movie’s titular character, Scott was also just as dedicated to ensuring that the skirmishes between armies were completed on the largest scale possible. In total, Napoleon features six major battle sequences that showcase the brutal realities of war, with Apple TV+ bringing the cannon blasts right into your living room. The biggest shock of all will come when, after watching the movie, you sit back and realize that Scott and his team somehow completed the entire filming process in just 62 days.

Ridley Scott’s gargantuan undertaking opened in cinemas over Thanksgiving weekend, putting it up against other titles like Wish, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, and Saltburn. By the time Napoleon left theaters, it had amassed a worldwide box office haul of $221 million against its $130-200 million production budget, with many choosing to wait to put in the time until it landed on Apple TV+. 

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film is one of Scott’s lower-performing titles, landing a 58% approval rating. Still, Napoleon managed to nab nominations at the Academy Awards for Best Production Design, Best Visual Effects, and Best Costume Design – which is likely what audiences on Apple TV+ are so hyped about.

So, while you wait for Ridley Scott’s upcoming return to filmmaking with Gladiator II, check out Joaquin Phoenix in Napoleon now streaming on Apple TV+.