Released in November 2023 in theaters, the film Napoleon has captivated millions of people around the world, it must be said that the story of the French emperor who became one of the greatest military strategists in history has something to fascinate viewers. The film version produced by Apple and distributed by Sony Pictures lasted 2 hours and 38 minutes, which is already huge. However, it was not the full version!
Apple Releases Napoleon Director’s Cut
Today we have good and bad news for people who enjoyed the film Napoleon at the cinema, the full version without any cuts of the scenes is now available exclusively in the Apple TV+ catalog. The bad news is that France is not concerned. Indeed, as we are the only country to have an extremely strict media chronology, Apple was not authorized to offer the Director’s Cut of Napoleon in France. A decision that is quite sad, especially since the history of France is at the heart of the film and that historical battles that have forever marked our country are brilliantly staged in this extended version.
The Cupertino company, like its competitors in the streaming market, is required to comply with French law. Thus, the company is only allowed to offer a film released in theaters in the Apple TV+ catalog from 17 months after its first screening in theaters. This means that in the case of Napoleon, it will be possible to have the cinema version and the Director’s Cut version only from April 2025!
The Director’s Cut of Napoleon brings a total of 48 additional minutes of footage that has never been seen in theaters. During the production of the film, Apple Studios, Scott Free Productions, and 20th Century Studios had mutually agreed to shorten the film so that it would not be too long. The full version of the film available on Apple TV+ will be more comfortable to watch than in a theater, even though the film is incredible, not everyone is willing to sit in front of a screen for 3 hours and 26 minutes. On a streaming experience, viewers can take breaks or even watch the film in multiple parts.
The film Napoleon highlights the military genius and complex personality of the French emperor, while exploring his relationships with those close to him, especially with Josephine, his great love. The film not only traces Napoleon’s great battles, but also explores his political ambitions, his personal dilemmas and the sacrifices he made to gain power.
The film has grossed a total of $221 million at the box office, a figure far from what Apple and the other studios involved in the production had hoped for. However, VOD sales and deals with TV networks (such as Canal+ in France) have likely helped make the film more profitable.
How to watch the Director’s Cut of Napoleon in France?
For the moment, Apple does not offer Director’s Cute on the Apple TV app for purchase or rental, only the cinema version is available. If the Cupertino company and other VOD on demand platforms do not offer Director’s Cute, you will have to wait until April 2025 to enjoy it on Apple TV+.
Unfortunately, illegal streaming and download sites may quickly seize the opportunity to put the 3 hour and 26 minute version online, which will (once again) divert the French from legal solutions.