Napoleon (Sir Ian Holm) and his staff devise a clever scheme to return him from exile to Paris, where he hopes to revive his imperial aspirations and restore France to its former glory. They enlist the help of a former sailor who bears a striking resemblance to the emperor and persuades him to take Napoleon’s place. The traveler, now living in poverty, is secretly transported back to the mainland and must find his own way to the city. With few people he can rely on for support, he forms an attachment with a recently bereaved woman named “Nicole” (Iben Hjejle) and her young son, “Gerard” (Tom Watson). Nicole’s deceased husband was supposed to be one of his connections, but when it becomes clear that his replacement on St. Helena is unwilling to cooperate, Napoleon's prospects for reclaiming the throne appear bleak. Despite growing animosity from “Dr. Lambert” (Tim McInnerny), can he forge a connection with “Nicole” and perhaps create a new life? Can he set aside his past identity, or will it continue to trouble him until his dying day? Sir Ian Holm gives a moving performance, considering what might have transpired if Napoleon had ever managed to escape from his comfortable confinement. He begins to value the simple things in life, seeing them through the eyes of ordinary people who were tired of war and simply wanted shelter and food for their families. The developing relationship is handled with sensitivity, and there's a genuine connection between the man, the woman, and the boy. Considerable effort has gone into the film’s visuals, and moments of humor are woven throughout this story about yearning. It won’t appeal to those interested in historical accuracy or romance—but it’s an entertaining thought experiment from an actor who was clearly skilled at his profession.

Source on TMDB