Ridley Scott’s latest film, Napoleon, has faced a challenging run in theaters but is now leading Apple TV’s streaming charts. After nearly two years since its initial release, the historical epic starring Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby is gaining traction online despite its mixed critical reception and box office struggles. The film’s spotlight on Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise and fall has captured viewers on streaming platforms, marking a contrast between its theatrical and digital successes.
Napoleon recounts the life of the famed French leader, beginning with the Revolution and concluding with his death in 1821. The narrative combines vast battle scenes characteristic of Scott’s filmmaking with a close look at Napoleon’s complex relationship with his wife, Joséphine. Both Phoenix and Kirby delivered performances considered among their best, adding emotional depth to the sweeping historical story.
Box Office Results and Critical Reception
Despite having all the ingredients for success, including a major star cast and a Thanksgiving weekend premiere, Napoleon barely broke even at the global box office, earning just over $221 million against a production budget nearing $200 million. Its main theatrical rivals included Disney’s animated film Wish and Emerald Fennell’s Saltburn, which also had strong runs following Thanksgiving. On Rotten Tomatoes, critics and audiences gave Napoleon a 53% approval rating, reflecting a lukewarm response.
Nonetheless, the film received recognition during awards season with several nominations, including three Academy Award nods, underscoring its industry impact despite mixed reviews and underwhelming commercial results. The divided reception highlights uncertainties about the film’s lasting legacy in Scott’s extensive career.
Ridley Scott’s Upcoming Shift Back to Science Fiction
Following a run of historical dramas and biopics such as All the Money in the World, The Last Duel, House of Gucci, Napoleon, and Gladiator II, Ridley Scott is preparing to return to his sci-fi roots. His next project, The Dog Stars, promises a post-apocalyptic narrative featuring actors Jacob Elordi and Josh Brolin in leading roles, signaling a shift in genre after a period focused on period pieces and real-life stories.
Currently, Napoleon is available for streaming on Apple TV, where it contends with popular titles like Jon Watts’ Wolfs and Scott Derrickson’s The Gorge, attracting a new audience and stirring interest despite its initial mixed theatrical run.
“Ridley Scott has been known to sink some cash into his films. Whether he’s going for a historical epic or leaning into his sci-fi musings, you’d better believe that money will be spent.” – Source Content
“Both stars giving career-defining performances throughout.” – Source Content
“By the time all was said and done, Napoleon rode out of cinemas with more than $221 million in global sales, but considering its production budget of roughly $200 million, the film barely broke even.” – Source Content
“Napoleon is now streaming on Apple TV.” – Source Content
