Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby Bring History to Life in the Epic “Napoleon” Trailer

Director Ridley Scott is putting his own twist on one of history’s most unforgettable stories. Sony released the trailer for his new film, “Napoleon,” on July 10. In it, Oscar winner Joaquin Phoenix stars as the titular commander-turned-emperor Napoleon. “Mission Impossible” and “The Crown” star Vanessa Kirby joins him as Empress Joséphine. The movie looks at Napoleon through his long, volatile relationship with Joséphine as he rises (and falls) from power.

“Napoleon” is the 28th film that Scott, 85, has directed, and he’s not really slowing down. In 2021, he directed both “The Last Duel” and “House of Gucci,” and he’s currently in production on “Gladiator 2” starring Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, and Pedro Pascal. “Napoleon” was written by David Scarpa, who also wrote Scott’s film “All the Money in the World,” released in 2017.

Back in December 2022, Scott shared how Phoenix’s performance changed “Napoleon” for the better. “Joaquin is about as far from conventional as you can get. Not deliberately, but out of intuition. That’s what makes him tick. If something bothers him, he’ll let you know,” the director told Empire. “He made [Napoleon] special by constantly questioning.” Because of Phoenix’s questioning, Scott said, they “unpicked the film” to make it focus even more on Napoleon. “I had to respect that, because what was being said was incredibly constructive. It made it all grow bigger and better,” he added. He also called Phoenix “the most special, thoughtful actor I’ve ever worked with.”

“Napoleon” will be released in theaters this fall and eventually stream on Apple TV+. Ahead, here’s everything we know about “Napoleon” so far.

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