The Best Napoleonic War Movies Ever Made
- 1Orson Welles, Christopher Plummer, Rod Steiger
This epic historical drama showcases the famous Battle of Waterloo, where the legendary Duke of Wellington, portrayed by Christopher Plummer, confronts Napoleon Bonaparte, played by Rod Steiger. The film offers a detailed portrayal of battle strategies and tactics used by both sides during this climactic confrontation. With its star-studded cast and accurate depiction of war scenes, Waterloo is a must-watch for any fan of the Napoleonic era.
- 2Russell Crowe, Paul Bettany, Billy Boyd
Set during the height of the Napoleonic Wars, this thrilling adventure follows Captain Jack Aubrey, portrayed by Russell Crowe, as he leads his crew aboard HMS Surprise in pursuit of an elusive French warship. Along with his trusted friend and ship's surgeon Dr. Stephen Maturin (Paul Bettany), Aubrey navigates treacherous waters while dealing with enemy attacks and internal strife among his men. Boasting stunning visuals and exceptional performances from its lead actors, this film delivers an unforgettable maritime experience that transcends time.
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- 3
The Duellists
Keith Carradine, Harvey Keitel, Albert FinneyIn this dramatic adaptation of Joseph Conrad's novella The Duel, Ridley Scott tells the story of two French officers whose rivalry spans decades during the Napoleonic Wars. Starring Keith Carradine as Armand d'Hubert and Harvey Keitel as Gabriel Féraud, their bitter feud escalates into a series of life-threatening duels amidst the backdrop of war-torn Europe. This visually striking film features excellent swordplay choreography and provides a fascinating exploration of honor and obsession among soldiers in 19th-century France.
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- 4Gregory Peck, Virginia Mayo, Robert Beatty
Adapted from C.S. Forester's iconic novel series, this swashbuckling adventure film stars Gregory Peck as Captain Horatio Hornblower, a skilled British naval officer serving during the Napoleonic Wars. The story follows his exploits against French forces in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, balancing naval battles with personal struggles. With its engaging storyline and memorable performances, Captain Horatio Hornblower R.N. remains a classic among historical war films.
- 5John Malkovich Christian Clavier Isabella Rossellini Gérard Depardieu Alexandra Maria Lara
Taking on one of history's most enigmatic figures, Christian Clavier stars as Napoleon Bonaparte in this lavish miniseries that recounts key moments from Napoleon's rise to power through his eventual fall at Waterloo. With captivating performances from Isabella Rossellini as Joséphine de Beauharnais and John Malkovich as Charles Talleyrand, this production offers a riveting look at the personal life and political machinations of a military genius whose ambitions redefined Europe's landscape.
- 6Audrey Hepburn, Henry Fonda, Mel Ferrer
This sweeping adaptation of Leo Tolstoy's renowned novel explores the lives of several Russian aristocratic families against the backdrop of Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812. Starring Audrey Hepburn as Natasha Rostova, Henry Fonda as Pierre Bezukhov, and Mel Ferrer as Prince Andrei Bolkonsky, this epic saga delves into themes such as love, loss, sacrifice, and redemption during one of history's most tumultuous periods.
- 7Orson Welles, Claudia Cardinale, Jack Palance
Directed by Abel Gance, this historical drama focuses on Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power leading up to his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805. The film showcases an impressive ensemble cast including Pierre Mondy as Napoleon Bonaparte, Martine Carol as Joséphine de Beauharnais, and Orson Welles as Robert Fulton. Offering stunning visuals combined with an insightful exploration of Napoleon's tactics and motivations during this pivotal moment in European history makes Austerlitz a must-watch for fans of historical epics.
- 8Albert Dieudonne, Antonin Artaud, Pierre Batcheff
In this silent film masterpiece, director Abel Gance portrays Napoleon Bonaparte's life from his early years at military school through the French Revolution and the formation of the First French Empire. Featuring Albert Dieudonné as Napoleon, the film is a groundbreaking work known for its innovative cinematic techniques and ambitious scope. The dramatic portrayal of Napoleon's life, coupled with an unforgettable score by Arthur Honegger, makes Napoléon (1927) an essential viewing experience.
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- 9Ryan O'Neal, Marisa Berenson, Patrick Magee
Set in Europe during the Seven Years' War and subsequent Napoleonic era, Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of William Makepeace Thackeray's novel follows the rise and fall of Irish adventurer Redmond Barry (Ryan O'Neal). The film provides a rich tapestry woven with themes such as ambition, love, betrayal, and family drama against an authentic period backdrop. With its lush cinematography, meticulous attention to detail, and compelling character development, Barry Lyndon remains a timeless classic.
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- 10Daniel Gélin, Raymond Pellegrin, Orson Welles
This biographical drama stars Daniel Gélin as Napoleon Bonaparte and explores various aspects of his life, including his romance with Joséphine de Beauharnais (María Félix) and his tumultuous military career during the Napoleonic Wars. Directed by Sacha Guitry, this film offers a unique perspective on one of history's most influential figures while providing insight into the social and political climate of 19th-century France.
- 11Alec Guinness, Dirk Bogarde, Maurice Denham
This British naval drama stars Alec Guinness as Captain Crawford, commanding officer of HMS Defiant during the Napoleonic Wars. As he faces French fleets in battle, Crawford also contends with tensions among his crew members and an unscrupulous first officer (Dirk Bogarde). Boasting a gripping plot and powerful performances from its cast, H.M.S. Defiant is a must-see for fans of maritime and historical films.
- 12Jim Caviezel, Guy Pearce, Dagmara Dominczyk
Based on Alexandre Dumas' legendary tale set during the Bourbon Restoration following the Napoleonic Wars, this adventure film tells the story of Edmond Dantès (Jim Caviezel), a man seeking revenge after being falsely imprisoned by those he trusted most. As he emerges from prison reinvented as "The Count," Dantès embarks on an intricate plan to exact retribution against his enemies. With its thrilling action sequences and intense emotional narrative, The Count of Monte Cristo (2002) offers a captivating exploration of love, betrayal, and the power of redemption.
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- 13Javier Bardem, Natalie Portman, Stellan Skarsgård
This biographical drama delves into the life of Spanish painter Francisco Goya (Stellan Skarsgård), exploring his tumultuous relationship with the Catholic Church amidst the backdrop of the Peninsular War between France and Spain. Natalie Portman delivers a powerful performance as Inés, Goya's muse whose arrest by the Spanish Inquisition triggers the artist's descent into darkness. With its intriguing premise and captivating visuals inspired by Goya's work, this film offers a compelling look at art during one of history's most turbulent eras.
- 14Ronald Colman, Elizabeth Allan, Edna May Oliver
Based on Charles Dickens's classic novel set during the French Revolution and subsequent Napoleonic era, this period drama chronicles the lives of those caught in these tumultuous times as they fight for survival amid chaos and injustice. Stars Dirk Bogarde as Sydney Carton, Dorothy Tutin as Lucie Manette, and Christopher Lee as Marquis St.-Evremonde bring to life Dickens's memorable characters whose fates are intricately intertwined across two nations at war.
- 15Richard Chamberlain, Tony Curtis, Trevor Howard
In this adaptation of Alexandre Dumas's classic novel set after Napoleon's fall from power, Richard Chamberlain stars as Edmond Dantès, a man falsely accused and imprisoned by those closest to him. Emerging years later under the guise of "The Count," Dantès seeks revenge on his betrayers while navigating treacherous high society in post-Napoleonic France. With its intricate plot twists and thrilling action sequences, The Count of Monte Cristo (1975) is an engaging exploration of loyalty, friendship, and vengeance.
- 16Gérard Depardieu, Fanny Ardant, Fabrice Luchini
Adapted from Honoré de Balzac's novella set during Napoleon’s return to power, this French film tells the story of Colonel Chabert (Gérard Depardieu), a presumed-dead officer who returns to claim his fortune and wife. However, he encounters numerous obstacles in his quest for justice, as those around him prove unwilling to relinquish their newfound wealth and status. This poignant drama explores themes such as greed, betrayal, and the harsh realities faced by soldiers returning from war.
- 17David Niven, Margaret Leighton, Cyril Cusack
Set during the French Revolution's Reign of Terror, this adaptation of Baroness Orczy's novel follows Sir Percy Blakeney (David Niven), an English aristocrat who moonlights as "The Scarlet Pimpernel," a daring hero rescuing French nobles from the guillotine. With Marguerite St. Just (Margaret Leighton) by his side, Sir Percy engages in a game of intrigue and deception against ruthless French revolutionary Chauvelin (Cyril Cusack). Featuring memorable performances and thrilling action sequences, The Elusive Pimpernel is a captivating tale of love and courage in the face of tyranny.
- 18
Lines of Wellington
John Malkovich, Catherine Deneuve, Isabelle HuppertSet during the Peninsular War between Britain and France in 1810, this historical war drama follows the Duke of Wellington (John Malkovich) as he leads his troops through Portugal in an effort to thwart Napoleon's forces. While showcasing strategic battles on both sides of the conflict, it also delves into personal struggles faced by soldiers caught up in war. Directed by Valeria Sarmiento with an ensemble cast including Nuno Lopes and Marisa Paredes, Lines of Wellington offers a gripping portrayal of heroism amidst one of history’s most turbulent chapters.
- 19Leonid Bichevin, Maksim Matveyev, Pavel Priluchny
This Russian historical drama centers on prominent figures within the Decembrist movement who sought to overthrow Tsar Nicholas I following Napoleon’s defeat in Russia in 1812. Exploring themes such as patriotism and political intrigue against a backdrop of revolutionary fervor, Union of Salvation offers audiences an insightful look at Russia's struggle for change during this volatile era.
- 20Cary Grant, Frank Sinatra, Sophia Loren
In this action-packed historical drama set during Napoleon’s invasion of Spain, a British naval officer (Cary Grant) teams up with an alluring Spanish freedom fighter (Sophia Loren) and a fiery guerrilla leader (Frank Sinatra) to transport a massive cannon across the country. As they navigate treacherous terrain and face various obstacles, the trio forms an uneasy alliance. With its compelling storyline, stellar cast, and breathtaking scenery, The Pride and the Passion is a thrilling adventure that showcases the spirit of resistance against Napoleonic rule.
- 21Ian Holm, Iben Hjejle, Tim McInnerny
This whimsical comedy presents an alternate history in which Napoleon Bonaparte (Ian Holm) escapes exile on Saint Helena by swapping places with a lookalike commoner. Returning to France, he discovers the country is no longer under his rule and must acclimate to life as a regular citizen while plotting his return to power. With its clever premise, lighthearted humor, and stellar performances from Ian Holm and Iben Hjejle, The Emperor's New Clothes offers a unique take on one of history's most influential figures.
- 22
The Supper
Claude Brasseur Claude RichThis French film is set in 1815 during Napoleon's exile on Elba Island when he is visited by six of his loyal soldiers for a final supper before his escape and return to France. Offering insight into Napoleon's personality and relationships with those closest to him, this intimate drama presents a unique view of history's most famous military strategist. Featuring Claude Rich as Napoleon Bonaparte, The Supper provides an engaging exploration of loyalty, friendship, and political intrigue among those who shaped Europe's destiny.
- 23Bogusław Linda, Daniel Olbrychski, Andrzej Sewereyn
Based on Adam Mickiewicz’s epic poem set against Napoleon’s invasion of Russia in 1812, this Polish romantic drama follows two feuding families as their younger generations fall in love despite their elders’ animosity. With lush cinematography capturing the picturesque landscapes of rural Poland and strong performances from its ensemble cast led by Bogusław Linda and Michał Żebrowski, Pan Tadeusz presents an authentic portrayal of 19th-century Eastern Europe while exploring themes such as love, honor, and patriotism during wartime.
- 24Amanda Root, Ciarán Hinds, Susan Fleetwood
Based on Jane Austen's classic novel set in post-Napoleonic England, this period drama follows Anne Elliot (Amanda Root), a woman who finds herself torn between her feelings for Captain Frederick Wentworth (Ciarán Hinds) and societal expectations after breaking off their engagement years earlier. As Anne navigates personal and family conflicts against the backdrop of Britain's changing social landscape, Persuasion provides an insightful exploration of love, loyalty, and societal pressures during this transformative era.
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- 25Robert Donat, Phyllis Calvert, Robert Morley
This biographical drama chronicles the life and career of William Pitt the Younger (Robert Donat), Britain’s youngest Prime Minister who played a pivotal role in shaping his nation’s response to the threat posed by Napoleon Bonaparte. As he navigates turbulent political waters with steadfast determination and unwavering loyalty to his country, Pitt emerges as a formidable figure in British history whose influence is felt long after his untimely death.
- 26Yury Yakovlev, Igor Ilyinsky, Larisa Golubkina
This Soviet musical comedy follows a young noblewoman (Tatyana Samoylova) who disguises herself as a male hussar to join her lover in the fight against Napoleon's invasion of Russia. With its lighthearted humor, catchy songs, and charming performances from its cast led by Samoylova and Andrei Abrikosov, Hussar Ballad offers an entertaining glimpse into the lives of those affected by war while providing a unique look at Russian culture and history.
- 27
Sept Hommes et Une Garce
Marilù Tolo, Jean MaraisThis French historical adventure centers on a group of seven soldiers tasked with escorting a mysterious woman (Dany Robin) through enemy territory during the Napoleonic Wars. As their journey progresses, intrigue and betrayal abound as they discover that their enigmatic charge may not be what she seems. With its action-packed storyline set amidst the backdrop of 19th-century Europe, Sept Hommes et Une Garce delivers an exciting cinematic experience for fans of historical adventures.
- 28Claudia Cardinale, Eli Wallach, Jack Hawkins
Based on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's series of short stories featuring Etienne Gerard, this British comedy stars Peter McEnery as the dashing French officer who recounts his escapades during the Napoleonic Wars. Showcasing a blend of swashbuckling action and dry humor, this film offers an amusing take on military life during one of history's most iconic eras.
- 29
La Guerre Dans Le Haut Pays
Marion CotillardSet during the peak of Napoleon's rule over Europe, this Swiss-French historical film follows two opposing soldiers – David (Thibault de Montalembert), a loyalist to Bonaparte's regime, and Hansli Gyr (Bernard Verley), a Helvetian patriot – who find their loyalties tested when they fall in love with the same woman. Through its exploration of conflicting loyalties and a love triangle, La Guerre Dans Le Haut Pays offers an engaging look at the personal struggles faced by individuals during times of war.
- 30
Raffl
Lois Weinberger, Dietmar Schonherr, Arthur BraussThis Italian-Austrian film is set in Tyrol during the Napoleonic Wars when Andreas Hofer leads his fellow countrymen in a rebellion against Napoleon’s forces that have occupied their homeland. Focusing on both sides of the conflict – Hofer’s impassioned resistance and Napoleon’s military might – Raffl showcases the bravery and determination of those willing to stand up against tyranny while offering a compelling portrayal of historic events.
