Napoleon's Ridley Scott discusses critics and the film industry's 'bum ache'

Sir Ridley Scott, the acclaimed director behind films like Gladiator, Alien, Thelma & Louise, and Blade Runner, is known for his straightforward and outspoken nature. He doesn't seek out advice and considers asking others for their opinion a "disaster." He also doesn't care about not having won a Best Director Oscar, despite his contributions to some of the most memorable films of the past four decades. When it comes to criticisms about the historical accuracy of his latest movie, Napoleon, he responds with a dismissive attitude and reminds his critics that their opinions won't change his approach. In a plush hotel in central London, Scott discusses his latest film, Napoleon, which recently premiered in Paris. The movie showcases the fascinating and complex life of the French soldier turned emperor, played by Joaquin Phoenix, and his obsession with his wife Josephine, portrayed by Vanessa Kirby. Napoleon was a man who wielded great power, leading to the deaths of millions, and Scott finds his story captivating. The film is nearly two and a half hours long, and Scott is conscious of avoiding the "bum ache factor" that often arises in movies that exceed three hours. He carefully edits to maintain the audience's engagement and avoid making the film too long. There are reports that he plans to release a longer director's cut for Apple TV+ but is not at liberty to discuss it. Napoleon has received favorable reviews in many parts of the UK media, earning five stars in The Guardian and four stars in The Times and Empire. However, the French critics have been more critical, with Le Figaro comparing the film to "Barbie and Ken under the Empire" and French GQ finding it awkward and unintentionally comical to hear French soldiers shouting "Vive La France" with American accents. A biographer of Napoleon in Le Point magazine also criticized the film as being pro-British and anti-French. Scott defends his movie by suggesting that the French are not fans of themselves and emphasizes that the audience in Paris responded positively to the film. He condenses Napoleon's empire-building conquests into six grand battle scenes, including the iconic victory at Austerlitz in 1805. Scott expertly blends practical sets with digitally enhanced shots to create a visually stunning experience. Sir Ridley Scott's skill as a director lies in his ability to create immersive and visually striking worlds, whether it's in space, historical periods, or war-torn regions. He has a keen eye for detail and does his own storyboarding, translating his vision from paper to the big screen. He directs with an openness to new ideas and is praised by actors like Joaquin Phoenix for his ability to pivot when necessary. Vanessa Kirby, who plays Josephine in Napoleon, appreciates Scott's non-prescriptive approach, allowing her and other actors the freedom to develop their characters and the relationship dynamics. However, she also acknowledges the fast pace at which Scott works, shooting multiple big scenes in a single day. Contrary to popular belief, Scott no longer operates the camera on his films, recognizing the true power lies with the camera operator and the first assistant director. On Napoleon, he used up to 11 cameras simultaneously and directed from an air-conditioned trailer, orchestrating the action while shouting instructions. This setup allows for greater freedom for actors to improvise since the need for multiple takes is reduced. Immortalizing Napoleon on film was a challenge that even Scott's hero, Stanley Kubrick, couldn't conquer due to financial constraints. Scott took artistic liberties with the historical events, which has drawn criticism from some historians. However, the director reminds his critics that their opinions are invalid since no one alive today was present during Napoleon's time. Looking ahead, Scott plans to restart filming Gladiator 2, which was interrupted by the actors' strike. He also has another project in the works, but keeps the details under wraps. At 86 years old, Scott shows no signs of slowing down and is committed to making films for the rest of his life. He is constantly moving from one project to the next, fueled by his passion for storytelling and his unwavering dedication to his craft.