Best Films Portraying Napoleon Bonaparte: Nexus of History and Cinema

History, as they say, is written by the victors. This adage is particularly evident in the case of Napoleon Bonaparte. The Napoleonic Wars, which saw numerous nations and spanned two decades, were, at their core, a struggle between England and France. However, it is England that emerged victorious at the Battle of Waterloo. As such, the historical narrative that has been passed down through generations is heavily biased, leading to a skewed portrayal of Napoleon. Despite the adverse narrative, the man and his reign have continued to capture the attention and admiration of historians and filmmakers alike. In this article, we explore the best films that offer a window into Napoleon’s legacy.

Popular Perception of Napoleon Bonaparte

The portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte in popular culture has often been colored by a skewed historical view. He is often described as a small, tyrannical figure who sought the destruction of Europe. Such a portrayal, however, was largely propagated by his enemies, particularly the English, during and after the Napoleonic Wars. This has led to a persistent and negative perception of Napoleon, which persists in the collective consciousness, especially among English-speaking nations such as the United States, England, Canada, and Australia.

However, a more balanced view of Napoleon can be found in the histories written in other languages, particularly French. While it is true that Napoleon has also received much adulation from those who saw him as a hero, the prevailing negative perception is largely due to the intellectual laziness of some historians who perpetuate fallacies.

My Favorite Napoleon Movies

While there are numerous films that portray Napoleon, a select few stand out for their historical accuracy, acting, and overall impact. Here is a list of my favorite films about Napoleon:

1. Waterloo (1970) by Sergej Bondaruk

The film features a two-hour treatment of the Battle of Waterloo, starring Rod Steiger as Napoleon and Christopher Plummer as Wellington. While the Battle of Waterloo is well-covered, the introductory battles of Quatre Bras and Ligny are missing, which could have enhanced the narrative. The battle scenes are particularly compelling, using real uniforms and physical sets, making the viewer feel transported back to that pivotal day. Steiger’s portrayal of Napoleon is nuanced but it is important to note that he was not his usual self on the day of the battle, a point that scholarly experts agree on.

2. The Emperor’s New Clothes (2001) by Charles Ip and David Prazak

This film is a highly original take on Napoleon’s life, with good sets and acting, including a second stint for Ian Holm in the role. While Holm’s interpretation is groundbreaking, the film leans towards portraying Napoleon as irascible and impatient, which is a bit of a mischaracterization. This portrayal, while creative, does not reflect the full scope of Napoleon’s personality or the complexity of his actions.

3. Napoleon TV Series (2002) by Jean-Fran?ois Brunsonnier

This television series offers a very detailed and historically accurate portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte. Christian Clavier’s portrayal is mature and nuanced, avoiding the usual banality that often accompanies portrayals of historical figures. The series provides a holistic view of Napoleon, showcasing his military genius, legislative skills, and personal life as a lover of the arts and culture, as well as his roles as a husband and father. The supporting cast is impressive, with the likes of Isabella Rossellini, John Malkovich, and Gerard Depardieu, enhancing the quality of the series.

4. Napoleon (1927 and 1955)

These two films, often considered classics, offer different takes on Napoleon’s life. The silent film from 1927 was later remade with musical accompaniment in the early 1980s. It has garnered universal acclaim over the years but remains difficult to find due to legal battles. The more recent version, while visually appealing, is slightly overshadowed by the growing appeal of modern cinematic techniques. Still, the acting is superb, and the film provides an accurate account of the main events of the Napoleonic story.

5. Monsieur N. (2003) by Georges Franju

This fictitious film by Philippe Torreton stands out for its nuanced portrayal of Napoleon. Torreton perfectly captures the dual nature of Napoleon, showing both his calculating and shrewd side as well as his compassionate and human side. The film presents a fascinating storyline, exploring a speculated theory about Napoleon’s possible escape and disappearance in the United States, adding an intriguing layer to the narrative. Despite the fictional plot, the characters and setting are factual, making Torreton’s portrayal of Napoleon a memorable and heartfelt experience.

In conclusion, the portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte in film reflects the complexity of his character and the enduring fascination with his life and reign. From the stirring battles of Waterloo to the thoughtful explorations of Napoleon’s human qualities, these films offer a diverse and intriguing look into one of history’s most pivotal figures.