Aaron N

This A&E miniseries depicts the life of one of the most influential, controversial, beloved, hated, scorned, and admired men in human history: Napoleon Bonaparte. Though, there is much more to the French Emperor’s life and the history that ensued around it that is not depicted. This mini-series nonetheless does an adequate job in covering some of the most pivotal moments in both the life of the man as well as this most precarious era in French history. Taking you from his time as the head of the armed forces stationed in Italy to his final defeat at Waterloo; Napoleon the mini-series doesn’t leave much out in terms of covering the overall geopolitical quarrels which plagued Europe during this time. Love and romance are featured in some detail too, as Napoleon was well known to be a passionate lover to many of Europe’s finest and most influential women. However, it is in this aspect where the miniseries fell flat in certain areas; as many of the romantic scenes rely too heavily on melodrama to keep the viewers’ attention. No expense appears to have been spared when A&E produced this period drama. The set designs, war scenes, and character wardrobes all encompass where the series excelled most: detail and pace. Georgian styled warfare is difficult to depict in any sort of film or live-action reenactment. The pace is often slow and onlookers/viewers can quickly lose interest. Napoleon the miniseries overcomes this hurdle by pacing the battle scenes quite well. Nothing too extensive or gory is presented, but it is showcased in such a way that the viewer does get a better sense of the danger that high stakes that were involved during this time. Several of the casting choices made were certainly curious as some actors proved to be more believable than others. Some critics have complained about the casting choice of Christian Clavier as Napoleon Bonaparte. Mainly due to the actors not so heavy resemblance to his real-life counterpart, as well as already having been in his fifties when dipicting a much younger Bonaparte during the first few episodes of the series. However, Clavier makes you forget about these attentions to detail, as he accurately portrays the brashness, boldness, confidence, and pride that were the hallmark characteristics of the French Emperor. Plus, it’s nice to have Napoleon who is finally portrayed with a French accent. Other casting choices such as Isabella Rossellini as Josephine Bonaparte and John Malkovich as Mousier Talleyrand were also excellent as their portrayals of their respected figures brought greater dimension to the series. Other casting choices, however, like Gérard Depardieu as Joseph Fouché and Toby Stephens as Czar Alexander I of Russia leaves a bit to be desired. For instance, it’s difficult to fully immerse yourself in certain scenes when the Czar of Russia sounds like a blue-blooded aristocrat from Cambridge. In all, A&E’s miniseries on Napoleon Bonaparte is definitely one of the better productions made on the French Emperors rise and fall from power. Whichever way you may feel about Napoleon, you will most likely enjoy watching this series