Actor Joaquin Phoenix looks menacing on the cover of Empire Magazine’s latest issue as the release date for Ridley Scott’s period drama about the life of one of history’s most powerful conquerors, Napoleon Bonaparte, approaches. While the life of the French Emperor offers plenty of room for narrative, the upcoming film will focus on his rise to power and relationship with Empress Josephine, played by Vanessa Kirby in the film. Betrayal, violence and romance await brave viewers as they prepare to witness Scott’s latest project, which aims to offer an unparalleled look at battles that took place centuries ago.
Joaquin Phoenix on the cover of Empire Magazine: a preview of Ridley Scott’s historical film about Napoleon Bonaparte
Ridley Scott had a clear idea of what personal story he wanted to tell in this film, which prompted him to assemble an international cast that included Tahar Rahim as Paul Barras and Matthew Needham as Napoleon’s brother. The first trailer for the upcoming historical drama teased the huge action scenes that Scott had prepared to depict the bloody battles that the famous leader was involved in, as well as showing the most intimate moments that Napoleon would share with the Empress Josephine. Everything is set for one of the most ruthless leaders in history to prove himself.
Ridley Scott is known for his monumental approach to training. Wide shots that show an army ready to strike without hiding the violence that war brings are some of the features that made the director’s filmography instantly recognizable. This seems to be one of the reasons he worked so enthusiastically on Napoleon, giving the film the opportunity to balance intense action scenes with gripping drama. It will also be Scott’s first film since House of Gucci to tell a very different story.
Having played Napoleon Bonaparte in the award-winning film in the upcoming awards season, Joaquin Phoenix will return to the role that won him an Academy Award. Joker: Folie à Deux will see Arthur Fleck reprise his lead role after leading a violent protest on the streets of Gotham City during the events of the first film. Todd Phillips will once again direct a sequel with Lady Gaga as the love interest of the Clown Prince of Crime. There is no prison cell that can keep the Joker, as he is determined to make Batman City disappear again.
Check out the new Empire Magazine cover featuring Joaquin Phoenix below ahead of the release of Napoleon in theaters on November 22nd.