Apple Unveils Napoleon Frame as Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix Lead Historical Epic
Apple has released the first official frame from Napoleon, the upcoming historical action feature directed by Ridley Scott and starring Joaquin Phoenix. The announced US release date is set for November 22, with the digital release on Apple TV Plus to be confirmed at a later time.
In a company press release, the frame is described as offering an authentic, intimate look at Napoleon Bonaparte’s origins and his rapid ascent to power. The portrayal emphasizes the commander’s intense personal life, focusing on his complex relationship with his wife Josephine. Actress Vanessa Kirby is highlighted for her performance in the film. The frame is said to depict Napoleon amid renowned battles and to showcase his relentless ambition and strategic brilliance as a military visionary.
Napoleon marks the beginning of a long collaboration between Scott and Phoenix, following their prior work together on the blockbuster Gladiator in which Phoenix portrayed the emperor Commodus. The screenplay for Napoleon was written by David Scarpa, who previously contributed to Scott’s All the Money in the World.
Media coverage at socialbites.ca has noted Napoleon as one of the most anticipated film projects of the year.
Reports also mention Scott’s ambition to pursue another Napoleon project in the near future, with a February shoot slated for a potential new initiative that could evolve into a television mini-series for HBO. The project is reportedly based on a script that dates back to 1961, authored by Stanley Kubrick.
Earlier discussions have touched on other ambitious expansions in the landscape of popular prestige drama, including rumors that Yellowstone may spawn a spin-off featuring a prominent lead actor. These developments reflect a broader push to deepen the scope of historical and capital-I iconic narratives across platforms and formats.