The HIDDEN Potential of Napoleon as a Movie Subject

Despite the arrest of major studios in the 1970s, there is an undeniable interest in bringing the life and legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte to the screen. This article explores the potential for a major film or TV series based on Napoleon, discussing the challenges faced by previous attempts and the reasons why a modern production could be successful.

Stanley Kubrick's Forgotten Vision

One of the most intriguing concepts for Napoleon's narrative has come from Stanley Kubrick, who pursued a five-hour epic about the French military leader. Unfortunately, the ambitious project was shelved due to the staggering costs involved, which no studio could afford at the time. This script was eventually turned into the critically acclaimed film Barry Lyndon (1975), with a significant portion of Kubrick's historical research on Napoleon influencing the final product.

Rediscovery and Current Status

The script for Napoleon's story remained in storage until it was rediscovered. In 2013, Steven Spielberg announced his interest in developing a TV series based on this material, drawing inspiration from successful series such as Game of Thrones and TUSS. Spielberg currently holds the rights to the script, paving the way for a potential revival of the project.

Previous Films and the Napoleonic Era

While there have been notable films that have touched on aspects of Napoleon's life and the Napoleonic era, none have fully explored the depth and complexity of the protagonist's character. Some of these films include:

Waterloo (1970) The Emperor's New Clothes (2001) War and Peace (1956) Barry Lyndon (1975) The Duellists (1977) The Count of Monte Cristo (2002) Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World (2003) Les Misérables (2012)

Challenges and Opportunities

There are certainly challenges to bringing Napoleon's story to the screen, but there are also significant opportunities. One of the key factors would be the script. A compelling and nuanced narrative is essential, especially considering that Napoleon was not an American hero and that Americans did not directly fight against him. Therefore, the audience might not find him relatable or interesting in a straightforward biographical format.

However, as Steven Spielberg has noted, if a script can present Napoleon in a sympathetic light or even with internal motivations that are understandable, a major film or TV series could succeed. The key might lie in finding the right angle or character trait that resonates with the audience, such as suggesting Napoleon's quest for empire was driven by being slighted or feeling shorted as a child.

The Future of Napoleon on Screen

The potential for a major film or TV series about Napoleon is not limited by historical constraints. In today's interconnected world, there is a growing interest in historical and biographical narratives that can attract diverse audiences. Given Spielberg's interest in the project and the success of historical TV series, there is a growing market for such content.

If a producer can bring a fresh and engaging perspective to the story, leveraging the power of modern technology and storytelling techniques, there is a strong possibility that Napoleon could be the subject of a monumental and successful film or series. The historical significance of his life and the enduring fascination with his character make him a compelling figure for any aspiring filmmaker.