Ridley Scott's historical epic Napoleon has found new life on streaming. Three years after its polarizing theatrical run, the film has climbed into the top ten most-watched movies on Apple TV worldwide, proving that audiences are willing to give the ambitious biopic a second chance.
The film, starring Joaquin Phoenix as the French emperor and Vanessa Kirby as Josephine, was a passion project for Scott, who has long been fascinated by the military leader's rise and fall. Despite its grand scale and a reported $200 million budget, Napoleon received mixed reviews upon its November 2023 release, with critics divided over its pacing and historical liberties. Some called it "flat" and "tedious," while others, like Collider's Ross Bonaime, praised its ambition, giving it an 8/10 and noting that few of Scott's films "have had quite the level of size and ambition that Napoleon has."
At the box office, Napoleon grossed just under $220 million worldwide—a modest return that left many questioning whether Scott's epic would be remembered as a misstep. But now, as part of Apple TV's growing library, the film is reaching a wider audience than it ever did in theaters. Its streaming success echoes a broader trend: movies that underperform theatrically often find redemption on digital platforms.
This isn't the first time a Scott film has enjoyed a streaming resurgence. Earlier this year, his sci-fi drama The Dog Stars—which also flopped in theaters—soared to the top of Prime Video's charts, as we covered in our report on that surprise hit. Similarly, Gladiator II dominated Paramount+ after its theatrical release, proving that Scott's brand of spectacle translates well to the small screen.
For those who skipped Napoleon in theaters, the streaming version offers a chance to experience Scott's sweeping battle sequences and Phoenix's intense performance from the comfort of home. The film's extended cut, available on Apple TV, adds even more depth to the story, making it a compelling watch for history buffs and cinephiles alike.
While Napoleon may not have been the awards-season juggernaut some expected, its streaming success suggests that audiences are more forgiving than critics. As Scott continues to churn out ambitious projects, this renewed interest in his historical epic could pave the way for more such films to find their audience post-theatrical.
If you're looking for other underrated gems that deserve a second look, check out our list of fantasy flops that deserve a second look. And for more on Scott's recent work, including his gritty crime thriller Dope Thief, see our review.
As Napoleon continues to climb the streaming charts, it's clear that Scott's epic has found its true battlefield: the living room. Whether you're a fan of historical dramas or just curious about the controversy, now is the perfect time to see what all the fuss is about.
