Napoleon is here: Ridley Scott’s answer to superhero movies

Ridley Scott, the visionary director behind classics like Alien, Blade Runner and Gladiator, has a new project in the works: a biopic of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French emperor who conquered most of Europe in the early 19th century. The film, titled Napoleon is here, will star Joaquin Phoenix as the titular character, reuniting him with Scott after their collaboration on Gladiator.

Scott has described the film as his answer to the superhero genre, which has dominated the box office for the last decade. He said that he wanted to tell a story of a real-life hero who had extraordinary abilities and ambitions, but also flaws and vulnerabilities. He said that Napoleon was a complex and fascinating figure, who rose from humble origins to become one of the most powerful and influential leaders in history, but also faced challenges, defeats and betrayals.

The film will cover Napoleon’s life from his early military campaigns to his final exile on the island of St. Helena, where he died in 1821. It will also explore his relationship with his wife Josephine, played by Marion Cotillard, and his rivalry with his enemies, such as the British admiral Horatio Nelson, played by Benedict Cumberbatch. Scott said that he wanted to show the human side of Napoleon, as well as his genius and charisma.

Napoleon is here is expected to be released in 2024, and will be one of the most ambitious and expensive films ever made. Scott said that he hoped that the film would inspire and entertain audiences, and also make them think about the legacy of Napoleon and his impact on the world. He said that he believed that Napoleon was a hero for our times, who faced similar challenges and opportunities as we do today.