This film was recently released on Apple TV after showing at the cinema for a few months. I didn't feel like paying extra to see it as I was already subscribed to Apple TV, so took the opportunity to watch it on streaming.
Napoleon is one of the most competent people in history. Instead of portraying his tactical brilliance, ambition, or charisma, they decide to portray his petty relationship dramas? Napoleon, the film, would make great competence porn—showing what being smart and skillful can get you. It works less well as a soap opera.
Also, it’s sort of absurd to think you can fit Napoleon’s life into two and a half hours. The era is called the Napoleonic era—his life touches most important things during the time period. The movie only casually mentions his campaigns in Italy. It doesn't mention the Napoleonic Code. We don’t get to meet any of his charismatic and interesting marshals. So much interesting stuff and interesting people are missing.
But the main problem with the film was I just never believed Joaquin Phoenix was Napoleon. When I watched Jamie Foxx as Ray Charles, it felt like I was watching Ray Charles. With this film, it never felt like I was watching Napoleon. It felt like I was watching Joaquin Phoenix in a silly hat.