The film “Napoleon” attempts a sweeping portrayal of the French emperor’s life within a feature-length movie, but ultimately proves too much for the format. While boasting impressive visuals and an energetic directorial hand, the picture is hampered by a script that reaches beyond its grasp and numerous historical errors that prove more disruptive than illuminating. Joaquin Phoenix's take on Napoleon feels uneven; he has difficulty integrating the character’s supposed intelligence and self-importance with a more fragile, relatable persona. The movie moves at an unpredictable speed, trying to cover two decades of European history and personal events within a restricted timeframe. Significant moments seem hurried or insufficiently developed, making audiences wish for the kind of extended exploration that a television series could offer. Vanessa Kirby’s Josephine offers a spark of interest and substance, though even her narrative feels abbreviated and subordinate to the quick-moving historical drama. “Napoleon” serves as an example of a chance lost to delve into one of history's most mysterious individuals; it suggests that a larger, episodic presentation would have been more suitable for such a significant story.

Source on TMDB