“Scorsese, Scott deliver epic ‘Napoleon,’ yet depth and insight lacking.”
Martin Scorsese, aged 80, and Ridley Scott, almost 86, exhibit unrelenting creativity. Their recent films, longer, costlier, and more ambitious, stand out. Scott’s 160-minute “Napoleon” portrays the French leader’s life across countries and decades, highlighting thunderous battle sequences. The film’s grandeur leans towards showcasing Scott’s directorial prowess rather than delving deeply into Napoleon’s persona.
Set in 1789 during the French Revolution, Joaquin Phoenix’s portrayal of a young gunnery officer unfolds as he eyes political upheavals. Tasked to liberate a fort in Toulon, his transformation begins, symbolized by adjusting his hat, marking his ascent. The film captures gripping battles, elucidating clarity amid chaos, demonstrating Scott’s distinct directorial style.
Encounters with political figures, depicted with British actors, offer clarity and purpose. Rupert Everett portrays the Duke of Wellington, a formidable match for Phoenix’s Napoleon. Vanessa Kirby’s Joséphine captivates, her allure palpable. Phoenix embodies Napoleon’s multifaceted persona, displaying battlefield relaxation, petulance in meetings, and awkwardness with women.
However, the film skims over emotional depth, lacking insight into relationships or geopolitical underpinnings. Scott plans an extended cut, teasing a potentially more profound narrative. The current version, while impressive, feels like an enticing preview awaiting a richer, more engaging exploration.
