History, Power, and Ambition- 25 Best Movies Like Napoleon (2023)

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80%

67

8.5

Ridley Scott's "Gladiator" immerses viewers in the world of Maximus, a revered Roman general turned gladiator seeking vengeance. Much like Napoleon, Maximus grapples with betrayal, navigating political intrigue and battling in epic arenas. Their parallel journeys highlight the pursuit of justice, power, and legacy, making "Gladiator" a gripping spectacle resonant with the complexities of leadership and ambition reminiscent of Napoleon's own rise and fall.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Joaquin Phoenix

Connie Nielsen

Oliver Reed

Richard Harris

Derek Jacobi

Djimon Hounsou

David Schofield

John Shrapnel

Tomas Arana

Directed by Ridley Scott

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Gladiator)

from /22 Grand Movies Like Gladiator

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76%

68

8.3

Mel Gibson's "Braveheart" unfolds the tale of William Wallace, a Scottish knight rallying his people against English oppression. In a narrative akin to Napoleon's military exploits, Wallace's strategic brilliance and determination reflect the French leader's relentless pursuit of power. Both figures, separated by centuries, embody the indomitable spirit of resistance and the quest for freedom, drawing audiences into historical sagas marked by courage, sacrifice, and the enduring legacy of visionary leaders.

CAST

Mel Gibson

Catherine McCormack

Sophie Marceau

Patrick McGoohan

Angus Macfadyen

Brendan Gleeson

James Robinson

James Cosmo

Sean McGinley

Gerda Stevenson

Directed by Mel Gibson

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90%

71

8

Benedict Cumberbatch portrays Alan Turing in "The Imitation Game," unraveling the brilliant mind behind breaking the Enigma code during World War II. Much like Napoleon's strategic prowess, Turing's intellectual acumen alters the course of history. Both figures share a common thread of genius and determination, showcasing their impact on the world through intellect and vision. "The Imitation Game" weaves a captivating narrative, echoing the complexities of leadership and the indelible mark left by those who reshape the course of events.

CAST

Benedict Cumberbatch

Keira Knightley

Matthew Goode

Rory Kinnear

Allen Leech

Matthew Beard

Charles Dance

Mark Strong

James Northcote

Tom Goodman-Hill

Directed by Morten Tyldum

2 degrees of seperation (similar to The Imitation Game)

from /21 Best Movies Like The Imitation Game for Historical and Intellectual Intrigues

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66%

55

7.8

Edward Zwick's "The Last Samurai" immerses audiences in the clash of cultures during Japan's Meiji Restoration. Captain Nathan Algren, haunted by his past, finds solace and purpose among the samurai. Similar to Napoleon's resilience, Algren's journey echoes the French leader's determination to adapt and overcome. Both men, placed in foreign lands, navigate moral complexities, grappling with loyalty, honor, and the pursuit of a new identity. The film, like Napoleon's story, explores the transformative power of embracing unfamiliar worlds.

CAST

Tom Cruise

Ken Watanabe

Timothy Spall

Tony Goldwyn

Hiroyuki Sanada

Koyuki

Shin Koyamada

Billy Connolly

Togo Igawa

Shichinosuke Nakamura

Directed by Edward Zwick

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70%

63

7.5

Tom Hooper's "Les Misérables" unfolds against the sweeping canvas of post-revolutionary France. The film mirrors Napoleon's pursuit of power, depicting Jean Valjean's relentless quest for redemption amidst societal upheaval. Both narratives delve into the human condition, portraying characters shaped by their circumstances. Valjean's enduring struggle echoes Napoleon's battles, offering a poignant exploration of resilience, love, and the pursuit of justice in the face of societal turmoil.

CAST

Hugh Jackman

Russell Crowe

Anne Hathaway

Amanda Seyfried

Sacha Baron Cohen

Helena Bonham Carter

Eddie Redmayne

Aaron Tveit

Samantha Barks

Daniel Huttlestone

Directed by Tom Hooper

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83%

85

7.8

Joe Wright's "Atonement" intricately weaves a narrative across World War II, exploring the repercussions of a single decision. Similar to Napoleon's complex life choices, Briony Tallis alters destinies with her misguided actions. The film delves into the ripple effects of decisions made in times of upheaval, echoing the historical intricacies faced by Napoleon. As Briony seeks redemption, the narrative invites reflection on the consequences of choices, both personal and historical, resonating with the complexities inherent in Napoleon's legacy.

CAST

James McAvoy

Keira Knightley

Saoirse Ronan

Romola Garai

Vanessa Redgrave

Brenda Blethyn

Juno Temple

Benedict Cumberbatch

Harriet Walter

Alfie Allen

Directed by Joe Wright

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62%

63

7.2

Roland Emmerich's "The Patriot" unfolds against the backdrop of the American Revolutionary War. Similar to Napoleon's strategic prowess, Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) navigates the complexities of war while grappling with personal loss. Both figures exemplify leadership in tumultuous times, facing moral dilemmas that shape the course of history. The film's portrayal of resilience and sacrifice resonates with Napoleon's own journey, emphasizing the enduring impact of individuals on the tapestry of war and revolution.

CAST

Mel Gibson

Heath Ledger

Joely Richardson

Jason Isaacs

Chris Cooper

Tchéky Karyo

René Auberjonois

Lisa Brenner

Tom Wilkinson

Donal Logue

Directed by Roland Emmerich

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Peter Weir's "Master and Commander" immerses viewers in the challenges of naval warfare during the Napoleonic Wars. Captain Jack Aubrey (Russell Crowe) echoes Napoleon's strategic brilliance, navigating the vast oceans with determination and tactical acumen. Like Napoleon, Aubrey faces formidable adversaries and showcases leadership under pressure. The film captures the essence of naval warfare in the 19th century, mirroring Napoleon's maritime ambitions and the broader historical context of the era.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Paul Bettany

James D'Arcy

Robert Pugh

David Threlfall

Lee Ingleby

Max Pirkis

Max Benitz

Billy Boyd

Edward Woodall

Directed by Peter Weir

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83%

75

7.4

Shekhar Kapur's "Elizabeth" portrays the early years of Queen Elizabeth I's reign, capturing the political intrigue and personal struggles of a powerful ruler. Similar to Napoleon's ascent to power, Elizabeth (Cate Blanchett) faces political challenges, navigating court dynamics and external threats. The film's exploration of power, diplomacy, and personal sacrifice draws parallels with Napoleon's own journey, offering a compelling glimpse into the tumultuous lives of historical leaders shaping the destiny of their nations.

CAST

Cate Blanchett

Joseph Fiennes

Geoffrey Rush

Christopher Eccleston

John Gielgud

Richard Attenborough

Fanny Ardant

Éric Cantona

Vincent Cassel

Kathy Burke

Directed by Shekhar Kapur

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40%

63

5.2

In Ridley Scott's "Kingdom of Heaven," the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the Crusades, drawing thematic parallels to Napoleon's tumultuous era. Balian, portrayed by Orlando Bloom, undergoes a transformation from a humble blacksmith to a knight navigating the complexities of religious conflict and political intrigue. Much like Napoleon's strategic brilliance, Balian's journey reflects the challenges of leadership, personal sacrifice, and the pursuit of honor amidst epic battles, making this historical epic a captivating exploration of power and resilience.

CAST

Orlando Bloom

Eva Green

Jeremy Irons

David Thewlis

Edward Norton

Ghassan Massoud

Liam Neeson

Brendan Gleeson

Marton Csokas

Michael Sheen

Directed by Ridley Scott

2 degrees of seperation (similar to Kingdom of Heaven)

from /24 Best Movies like Kingdom of Heaven - A Cinematic Journey through History

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32%

48

6.5

Randall Wallace's "The Man in the Iron Mask" immerses viewers in the political intrigue of 17th-century France, mirroring the complexities of Napoleon's own rule. The film navigates themes of power, identity, and justice as Leonardo DiCaprio's dual role parallels the duplicity and intrigue witnessed in Napoleon's era. With a backdrop of royal machinations, the narrative echoes the intricate political webs woven during the French Revolution, providing a compelling exploration of historical suspense and power struggles.

CAST

Leonardo DiCaprio

Gabriel Byrne

Jeremy Irons

John Malkovich

Gérard Depardieu

Anne Parillaud

Judith Godrèche

Edward Atterton

Peter Sarsgaard

Hugh Laurie

Directed by Randall Wallace

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76%

64

7.2

Jean-Marc Vallée's "The Young Victoria" offers a glimpse into the early reign of Queen Victoria, aligning with the historical tapestry of Napoleon's era. Emily Blunt's portrayal captures the essence of royal responsibilities, love, and the challenges of leadership, mirroring Napoleon's dynamic relationship with Josephine and the complexities of imperial rule. The film delves into Victoria's ascent to the throne, exploring the personal and political intricacies of a young monarch, creating a rich narrative that resonates with the nuances of Napoleon's own rise to power.

CAST

Emily Blunt

Rupert Friend

Paul Bettany

Miranda Richardson

Jim Broadbent

Thomas Kretschmann

Mark Strong

Jesper Christensen

Harriet Walter

Jeanette Hain

Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée

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78%

62

7.7

"Steven Spielberg's 'Empire of the Sun' immerses audiences in the harrowing journey of a young British boy, Jamie, during World War II. Sharing thematic resonance with Napoleon, the film delves into the complexities of war, survival, and the loss of innocence. Jamie's evolution from a privileged child to a resilient survivor mirrors Napoleon's transformative journey, making 'Empire of the Sun' a captivating exploration of the human spirit in the face of adversity."

CAST

Christian Bale

John Malkovich

Miranda Richardson

Nigel Havers

Joe Pantoliano

Leslie Phillips

Masatō Ibu

Emily Richard

Rupert Frazer

Peter Gale

Directed by Steven Spielberg

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43%

50

6.7

"A tale of royal intrigue and familial relationships, 'The Other Boleyn Girl' paints a vivid portrait of Anne Boleyn's ambitious sister, Mary. Similar to Napoleon's pursuit of power, Mary navigates the intricate court of King Henry VIII, driven by ambition and family ties. This historical drama, like Napoleon's story, unfolds against a backdrop of political machinations and personal sacrifices, captivating audiences with its blend of history, passion, and power dynamics."

CAST

Natalie Portman

Scarlett Johansson

Eric Bana

Jim Sturgess

Mark Rylance

Kristin Scott Thomas

David Morrissey

Benedict Cumberbatch

Oliver Coleman

Ana Torrent

Directed by Justin Chadwick

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70%

73

7.2

"Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, 'Cold Mountain' weaves a poignant narrative of love and endurance. In a parallel to Napoleon's wartime struggles, the film follows a wounded soldier's arduous journey back to his beloved. Both tales share themes of separation, resilience, and the impact of conflict on personal lives, resonating with the emotional depth found in 'Napoleon.' 'Cold Mountain' delivers a powerful exploration of the human experience amid the tumultuous backdrop of war and love."

CAST

Jude Law

Nicole Kidman

Renée Zellweger

Eileen Atkins

Brendan Gleeson

Philip Seymour Hoffman

Natalie Portman

Giovanni Ribisi

Donald Sutherland

Ray Winstone

Directed by Anthony Minghella

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75%

72

7.2

In Spielberg's "War Horse," the emotional odyssey of a young man and his horse during World War I unfolds. Much like Napoleon's military campaigns, this epic tale explores the unbreakable bond between man and beast against the backdrop of a tumultuous historical period. As Joey, the war horse, navigates the horrors of the battlefield, the film echoes Napoleon's strategic prowess and the indomitable spirit that defined both man and horse.

CAST

Jeremy Irvine

Peter Mullan

Emily Watson

Niels Arestrup

David Thewlis

Tom Hiddleston

Benedict Cumberbatch

Celine Buckens

Toby Kebbell

Patrick Kennedy

Directed by Steven Spielberg

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62%

62

6.9

Starring Keira Knightley, "The Duchess" invites viewers into the tumultuous life of Georgiana Cavendish. In this 18th-century period drama, political intrigue, and romantic entanglements mirror the complexities of Napoleon's relationships. Much like the French leader's unions, Georgiana's struggles within the aristocracy reflect the sacrifices made for power and love, creating a narrative that resonates with the passion and ambition embodied in "Napoleon."

CAST

Keira Knightley

Ralph Fiennes

Charlotte Rampling

Dominic Cooper

Hayley Atwell

Simon McBurney

Aidan McArdle

John Shrapnel

Alistair Petrie

Patrick Godfrey

Directed by Saul Dibb

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89%

87

8.4

In "Amadeus," Milos Forman unravels the life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart through the eyes of Antonio Salieri. This historical drama echoes the complexities of Napoleon's character, depicting Salieri's jealousy mirroring the French leader's insatiable ambition. Both narratives explore the price of genius and the relentless pursuit of excellence, showcasing the parallels between the tormenting desires for artistic and political supremacy that define both Mozart and Napoleon.

CAST

F. Murray Abraham

Tom Hulce

Elizabeth Berridge

Roy Dotrice

Simon Callow

Christine Ebersole

Jeffrey Jones

Charles Kay

Kenneth McMillan

Kenny Baker

Directed by Miloš Forman

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77%

68

7.5

In "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (2007), director Andrew Dominik masterfully portrays the complex dynamics between legendary outlaw Jesse James and his admirer-turned-assassin, Robert Ford. Similarly to Napoleon's charismatic allure and subsequent betrayals, Jesse James' enigmatic persona draws parallels to the French leader's rise and fall. As with Napoleon's intricate relationships, the movie delves into the intricate web of emotions, loyalty, and the inevitable clash between personal aspirations and the pursuit of power.

CAST

Casey Affleck

Brad Pitt

Sam Rockwell

Paul Schneider

Jeremy Renner

Garret Dillahunt

Sam Shepard

Mary-Louise Parker

Zooey Deschanel

Ted Levine

Directed by Andrew Dominik

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87%

89

8.1

Transport yourself to the 18th-century aristocracy with Stanley Kubrick's "Barry Lyndon." This visually stunning period drama follows the life of the charismatic and opportunistic Redmond Barry, whose journey from an Irish rogue to a member of the European elite is both captivating and tragic. Similar to Napoleon, Barry Lyndon navigates the complexities of power, love, and societal expectations. Kubrick's meticulous attention to detail and the film's exploration of morality draw striking parallels to the epic nature of Napoleon's own tale.

CAST

Ryan O'Neal

Marisa Berenson

Patrick Magee

Hardy Krüger

Diana Körner

Gay Hamilton

Frank Middlemass

Arthur O'Sullivan

Godfrey Quigley

Leonard Rossiter

Directed by Stanley Kubrick

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63%

69

6.7

Terrence Malick's "The New World" unfolds a mesmerizing tale of exploration, love, and cultural collision in the early 17th century. Set against the backdrop of Jamestown and the relationship between Captain John Smith and Pocahontas, the film echoes Napoleon's narrative by delving into the complexities of forging alliances, facing moral dilemmas, and navigating the unknown. Malick's poetic storytelling captures the spirit of historical grandeur, mirroring the epic scope found in Napoleon's journey through triumphs and tribulations.

CAST

Colin Farrell

Q'orianka Kilcher

Christopher Plummer

Christian Bale

August Schellenberg

Wes Studi

David Thewlis

Yorick van Wageningen

Raoul Max Trujillo

Michael Greyeyes

Directed by Terrence Malick

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96%

90

8.4

Stanley Kubrick's "Paths of Glory" immerses viewers in the harsh realities of World War I, focusing on the moral quandaries faced by French soldiers during trench warfare. Drawing parallels with Napoleon's leadership challenges and the toll of warfare, the film explores themes of honor, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict. Kubrick's masterful direction and the film's unflinching portrayal of the human condition resonate with the epic dimensions present in Napoleon's tumultuous reign.

CAST

Kirk Douglas

Ralph Meeker

Adolphe Menjou

George Macready

Wayne Morris

Richard Anderson

Joe Turkel

Christiane Kubrick

Jerry Hausner

Peter Capell

Directed by Stanley Kubrick

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73%

61

7.7

Embark on a captivating journey of betrayal, vengeance, and redemption in "The Count of Monte Cristo." This 2002 adaptation follows Edmond Dantès, wrongfully imprisoned and transformed into the mysterious Count. Drawing parallels with Napoleon's pursuit of justice and power, the film delves into themes of resilience and retribution, offering a tale of triumph over adversity that mirrors the complexities of Napoleon's own rise to glory.

CAST

Jim Caviezel

Guy Pearce

Richard Harris

James Frain

Dagmara Domińczyk

Michael Wincott

Luis Guzmán

Christopher Adamson

JB Blanc

Henry Cavill

Directed by Kevin Reynolds

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73%

70

7.4

Ridley Scott's directorial debut, "The Duellists," unfolds an intricate story of honor and rivalry set against the backdrop of Napoleon's era. As officers Armand d'Hubert and Gabriel Feraud engage in a prolonged and intense feud, the film mirrors Napoleon's ambitious journey through historical conflicts. The duels, both physical and metaphorical, reflect the complexities of duty, pride, and the unwavering pursuit of principles, echoing the challenges faced by Napoleon himself during his rise to power.

CAST

Keith Carradine

Harvey Keitel

Albert Finney

Edward Fox

Cristina Raines

Robert Stephens

Tom Conti

John McEnery

Diana Quick

Alun Armstrong

Directed by Ridley Scott

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64

7.8

Immerse yourself in the visually stunning and emotionally resonant world of "The Fall." As a paraplegic stuntman weaves a fantastical narrative, the film mirrors Napoleon's grandiose ambitions with its captivating blend of reality and fantasy. Set against the contrasting landscapes of 1920s Los Angeles and India, "The Fall" invites audiences to explore the boundaries between dreams and reality, much like the way Napoleon's epic story blurs the lines between history and myth.

CAST

Lee Pace

Catinca Untaru

Jeetu Verma

Marcus Wesley

Leo Bill

Julian Bleach

Justine Waddell

Kim Uylenbroek

Aiden Lithgow

Emil Hostina

Directed by Tarsem Singh