Our Take on Napoleon — A Silent Epic Reimagined
Abel Gance's silent epic 'Napoleon' is a visual feast, but does it hold modern viewers' attention?
About Napoleon
- Platform: Apple TV+
- Release Date:
- IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
- Genres: Drama, History, War
A biopic of Napoleon Bonaparte, tracing the Corsican's career from his schooldays (where a snowball fight is staged like a military campaign) to his flight from Corsica, through the French Revolution (where a real storm is intercut with a political storm) and the Terror, culminating in his triumphant invasion of Italy in 1797.
WatchThisFlix Review
By WatchThisFlix Editorial Team
## The Setup Abel Gance's 1927 silent film 'Napoleon,' now available on Apple TV+, is a monumental biopic tracing the early years of Napoleon Bonaparte. From his schooldays in Corsica to his strategic brilliance during the French Revolution, the film culminates in his victorious invasion of Italy. Spanning over five hours, this film is not just a historical recounting but a cinematic experiment that captures the zeitgeist of an era in flux.
## What Works The visual storytelling in 'Napoleon' is nothing short of revolutionary. Gance employs a range of groundbreaking techniques, including split screens, superimpositions, and rapid cuts, which were unprecedented at the time of its release. The snowball fight at Napoleon's school, staged like a military campaign, sets the tone for Gance's innovative narrative style. These visual feats culminate in the triptych finale, where three projectors are used to create a panoramic view of the Italian campaign. Albert Dieudonné's portrayal of Napoleon is both commanding and nuanced, capturing the complexities of a man driven by ambition and genius.
## What Doesn't However, despite its technical brilliance, the film's pacing can be a hurdle for contemporary audiences. The elongated scenes and lack of dialogue, inherent to silent films, demand patience and commitment. Some may find the intertitles insufficient in conveying the depth of the historical and political context. While the film's length serves to underscore the epic scale of Napoleon's life, it may deter viewers accustomed to more concise storytelling.
## Who Is This For? This film is a must-watch for cinephiles and history buffs alike. It's an essential viewing for those interested in the evolution of film and the innovative techniques that shaped modern cinema. While casual viewers may struggle with its length and silence, those willing to invest the time will find it a rewarding experience.
## Final Verdict 'Napoleon' is a cinematic masterpiece that, despite its age, remains a benchmark in visual storytelling. While its length and silent nature may not appeal to everyone, its technical achievements and ambitious scope make it an important piece of film history worth revisiting.
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