Ridley Scott returned to the big screen after two years with a biographical drama on Napoleon Bonaparte, the legendary, if not controversial French general. Given Ridley Scott’s track record with historical dramas, this seemed like the perfect film for him. However, unlike Scott’s The Last Duel or Gladiator, Napoleon turned out to be a mockery of history that was edited horrendously. Joaquin Phoenix too didn’t have much to work with to impress us. In fact, the only stand out performer from the film was Vanessa Kirby. What one cannot deny are the film’s exceptional costumes, production design and cinematography. I don’t think there was any film last year that looked as good as Napoleon. I can see where the $200 million went. Given the mixed reviews, Scott had promised us a Napoleon director’s cut of the film that apparently solved all of its issues. However, it has been a month and half since the film’s release but have no update on it. So, when is it coming out?
Napoleon Director’s Cut Isn’t Coming Anytime Soon!
Despite making headlines that Napoleon’s 4 hour long director’s cut will be made available, neither Scott nor Apple TV+ has revealed any information about the same. Reportedly, Ridley Scott is currently working on the director’s cut and has no plans to rush. The veteran director is taking his sweet time to make the cut. It makes sense, after butchering Napoleon’s theatrical cut, Scott would want to get this one right. He has had a history of making many cuts for his films until he gets it right, ahem…ahem… Blade Runner.
Hopefully, whenever the director’s cut comes out, it will be a superior product than the theatrical cut. Now, talking about the streaming release date. I think we can predict Napoleon’s streaming release debut based on Killers of the Flower Moon’s release timeline – both are mega scale productions from Apple TV+, directed by veteran directors that didn’t do well at the box office. It is also important to note that both the films had eerily similar theatre to digital window. KOTFM – 46 days and Napoleon – 48 days.
Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon will be officially available for streaming on Apple TV+ from January 12th, 2024, 85 days since its theatrical debut. Considering that, Napoleon will have its streaming debut 85-90 days since its theatrical release. That means a release date of February 18th, 2024 can be expected but many reports have also mentioned February 23rd, 2024 to be potential release date. Let me know if you’re excited about Napoleon’s director’s cut.
Napoleon is helmed by Ridley Scott and penned down by David Scarpa. The film stars Joaquin Phoenix in the titular role and Vanessa Kirby as Empress Jose. The supporting cast includes Edouard Philipponnat, Anna Mawn, Youssef Kerkour and Matthew Needham.
Napoleon is now available for rent or purchase on digital and VOD platforms.
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