Apple’s highly anticipated film “Napoleon” had its world premiere in Paris, thanks to Sony motion picture group chairman and CEO Tom Rothman’s decision. The choice of the French capital was made due to the film’s connection to France and its subject matter. The premiere showcased the star-studded cast and crew, generating excitement for the film’s upcoming release.
However, Apple, the company that financed “Napoleon,” faced a setback in its release plans for France. Strict windowing rules in the country mean that Apple will have to wait 17 months before releasing the film on its streaming service. Rothman praised Apple for their unwavering support of the project and emphasized that “Napoleon” is a cinematic experience that deserves to be seen on the big screen.
Apple’s dedication to the big screen experience was further underscored by their decision to give Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon” a theatrical release in France before it becomes available on their streaming service in 2025. This move reflects Apple’s commitment to respecting the artistic vision of filmmakers and their desire to provide audiences with the full theatrical experience.
Ridley Scott, the director of “Napoleon,” expressed his gratitude to Apple for their financial support and their trust in him to work with a substantial budget. Producer Kevin J. Walsh revealed that the budget for the film was under $200 million, a relatively modest number considering the scale of the project. Scott’s decision to rely less on CGI and AI and utilize practical effects and in-camera images adds authenticity to the film.
Actress Vanessa Kirby, who portrays Josephine de Beauharnais in “Napoleon,” discussed her character and the challenges of being a woman in a masculine world. Her empathy for Josephine’s struggles and her dedication to portraying the character authentically highlights the depth of the film’s storytelling.
Tahar Rahim, who rarely participates in period movies, praised Scott’s directing style and his ability to work with multiple cameras simultaneously. The Paris premiere attracted noteworthy attention, with French AMPAS voters in attendance, suggesting that “Napoleon” is a strong contender for the upcoming awards season.
Rothman, eager for Scott to finally receive an Academy Award for his work, expressed his hopes for the director’s success this time around. Scott has been nominated multiple times in the past but has never won the prestigious award. With “Napoleon” set to hit theaters worldwide on November 22, audiences and critics are eagerly anticipating the film’s release and are hopeful for Scott’s well-deserved recognition.
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