Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Historical epic has nonstop, gory battlefield violence.
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Napoleon
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 18 parent reviews
Based on 16 kid reviews
Kids say this film suffers from significant historical inaccuracies and disappointing writing, despite impressive cinematography. Many found the excessive focus on sexual content and personal drama detracted from the potential for a more engaging historical narrative, leading to a consensus that it may only appeal to older teenagers.
- historical inaccuracies
- excessive content
- disappointing narrative
- impressive cinematography
- age-appropriate
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
NAPOLEON details the remarkable rise and dramatic fall of the French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (Joaquin Phoenix). From his younger years as an ambitious soldier to his becoming one of the most iconic and controversial figures in history, this is a look at the life of the man both on and off the battlefield, with a focus on his volatile marriage to Josephine (Vanessa Kirby).
Is It Any Good?
This epic historical biopic about one of history's most powerful figures can be greatly appreciated, but only really on a surface level. It showcases the extraordinary directing skills of filmmaker Ridley Scott; there are not many, if any, who could bring the life of Napoleon to screen in quite this way. Where the film excels is on the battlefield. The battle scenes -- which, unsurprisingly, take up a fair amount of the runtime -- are grand, monumental, and strikingly immersive. Beautifully shot, the sharp choreography contrasts so well with the violent brutality on display. However, where the film falters is with its "biopic" aspects. Despite the fact that he's in almost every scene, the film barely gets beneath the surface of Napoleon the man. Perhaps this is the point, that here is a man so complex that it's almost impossible to fully understand him. But at nearly three hours long, audiences may expect to come away with a better understanding of what made him tick. On a more positive note, the film is funny, very funny at times. Which is surprising, but by no means a bad thing, considering all the blood and death.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the violence in Napoleon. How did you feel watching the film? Is a certain level of violence expected in a movie like this? Does exposure to violent media desensitize kids to violence?
Discuss the portrayal of sex and relationships in the film. Was it affectionate? Respectful? Parents, talk to your teens about your own values regarding sex and relationships.
Napoleon is shown to be a deeply flawed and violent man. However, he also shows great courage and perseverance. What other figures can you think of that show both negative and positive traits?
What did you know about Napoleon Bonaparte before watching the film? Has it inspired you to learn more about him? What makes a good biopic?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 22, 2023
- On DVD or streaming : January 9, 2024
- Cast : Joaquin Phoenix , Vanessa Kirby , Tahar Rahim
- Director : Ridley Scott
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Middle Eastern/North African Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Columbia Pictures
- Genre : Action/Adventure
- Topics : History
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 158 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : strong violence, some grisly images, sexual content and brief language
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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