‘Napoleon’ Trailer Joaquin Phoenix in Ridley Scott’s Historical Epic

Joaquin Phoenix and director Ridley Scott have reunited for another historical epic after 2000’s Gladiator. Sony & Apple Original Films have released the trailer for Napoleon. Phoenix stars as the tyrannical French commander Napoleon Bonaparte.

The films official description reads as, “Napoleon is an original and personal look at Napoleon’s origins and his swift, ruthless climb to emperor, viewed through the prism of his addictive and often volatile relationship with his wife and one true love, Joséphine. The film captures Napoleon’s famous battles, relentless ambition and astounding strategic mind as an extraordinary military leader and war visionary.”

Filming began in February 2022 in England, locations included Lincoln, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire & Sussex. Along with Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon, Vanessa Kirby plays Joséphine, also featuring are Tahar Rahim, Ben Miles, Paul Rhys and Matthew Needham.

The trailer opens in the streets of 1793 France before introducing Phoenix. We see beautifully shot battle scenes & landscapes including Egypt, as the trailer charts the general’s rise to power and the ruthless choices he makes.

Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon

Napoleon has a high bar to meet after Gladiator won five Oscars including Best Picture, but judging by the trailer this will not be a problem, Phoenix looks as strong as ever and the production value and cinematography look at the very, very top.

You can watch the trailer for Napoleon below. It is due for release November 22.