What did the Napoleon movie get wrong? This question has been buzzing in the minds of history enthusiasts and moviegoers alike. While the 2019 film “Joan of Arc” directed by Raoul Peck, which portrays the life of Napoleon Bonaparte, received both critical acclaim and criticism, many argue that it failed to accurately depict the French emperor’s life and achievements. This article aims to explore the inaccuracies portrayed in the film and shed light on the historical context that was overlooked or misinterpreted.
One of the most significant inaccuracies in the film is the portrayal of Napoleon’s early life. The movie depicts him as a charismatic and ambitious soldier who rose through the ranks of the French military with ease. However, historical records suggest that Napoleon’s rise to power was far from effortless. He faced numerous setbacks and challenges, including being imprisoned on the island of Elba, before eventually returning to France and taking control of the country.
Another point of contention is the film’s depiction of Napoleon’s political ambitions. The movie portrays him as a ruthless and power-hungry leader who was willing to sacrifice his principles for the sake of power. While it is true that Napoleon was a strong-willed individual, the film fails to highlight his efforts to reform the French government and establish a more equitable society. For instance, he introduced the Napoleonic Code, which was a comprehensive set of laws that aimed to protect individual rights and promote social equality.
Furthermore, the film’s portrayal of Napoleon’s military campaigns is also criticized for its inaccuracies. While the movie does showcase some of his famous victories, such as the Battle of Austerlitz and the Battle of Jena-Auerstedt, it neglects to mention the numerous defeats and setbacks he faced during his reign. For example, the Battle of Waterloo, which marked the end of his reign, is only briefly mentioned in the film, failing to capture the magnitude of the defeat and its impact on European history.
Additionally, the film’s portrayal of Napoleon’s personal life is also problematic. The movie depicts him as a cold and calculating leader who had little emotional connection to his family and loved ones. However, historical records suggest that Napoleon was a loving husband and father who deeply cared for his family. His marriage to Josephine de Beauharnais and his later marriage to Marie-Louise of Austria were both genuine, albeit tumultuous, relationships.
In conclusion, while “Joan of Arc” offers a compelling and visually stunning portrayal of Napoleon Bonaparte, it falls short in accurately depicting his life and achievements. The film’s inaccuracies in portraying his early life, political ambitions, military campaigns, and personal life have left many viewers questioning its historical accuracy. As history enthusiasts, it is crucial to remain critical of cinematic representations and seek out reliable historical sources to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the past.
