Ridley Scott’s eagerly awaited historical saga, Napoleon, starring Joaquin Phoenix in the lead role, has generated considerable buzz among both fans and critics alike. Scott has unveiled that the director’s cut currently clocks in at a whopping four hours and ten minutes, though the version hitting theatres will be a more concise two hours and thirty-eight minutes.
The film, set for a November 22 theatrical release, provides an in-depth look into the life and times of the infamous French ruler, focusing not only on his significant triumphs and inevitable downfall but also exploring the intricate dynamics of his relationship with Empress Joséphine, portrayed by Vanessa Kirby.
Scott shared insights with Total Films on his extensive director’s cut, stating, I’m working on it. It was four hours and 10 minutes this morning. The acclaimed director envisions this extended cut making its way to streaming platforms following the theatrical run, allowing enthusiasts a more comprehensive understanding of the protagonists’ complex relationship and the tumultuous era they navigated.
Despite the film’s lengthy narrative, Scott impressively wrapped up shooting in a mere 62 days, attributing this efficiency to his strategic approach to filming which he describes as every scene is geometry. With a deployment of 11 to 14 cameras on set, Scott eliminated the need for multiple takes from various angles, significantly expediting the production process. The veteran director is applying the same methodology to his upcoming project, Gladiator 2.
The ensemble cast bringing Scott’s vision to fruition includes Tahar Rahim, Ben Miles, Matthew Needham, Youssef Kerkour, Rupert Everett, and Paul Rhys among others. Napoleon is slated for theatrical release on November 22, with a subsequent release on Apple TV+ at a date yet to be announced.
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