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“Napoleon” is a 2023 historical epic directed by Ridley Scott. Based on real-life historical events, the film retells Napoleon Bonaparte’s rise to power as one of France’s most successful emperors, as well as his passionate yet tumultuous relationship with his wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais. With its enigmatic central character, historical significance, and exploration of the consequences of intertwining public governance with personal ambitions, “Napoleon” captures the attention of viewers and history buffs around the world.
“Napoleon” will be available to stream globally on Apple TV Plus on March 1, 2024, since the film is an Apple Original production.
For now, you can buy or rent “Napoleon” digitally on video-on-demand (VOD) services like Apple TV, VUDU, Cineplex Store, and Prime Video. However, some of these platforms, like VUDU, are only available in the US, so you must use a VPN to access them in Canada.
Here at TechDaily, we aim to assist users in selecting the best streaming services for their entertainment needs. This article will explore each streaming option available in Canada to watch “Napoleon,” from subscription-based services to video-on-demand (VOD) ones.
Table of Contents
1. Apple TV Plus
Starting March 1, viewers can stream “Napoleon” on the subscription-based streaming service, Apple TV Plus.
Apple TV Plus is only compatible with iPhones, smart TVs, and game consoles like the Sony PlayStation and Xbox series. If you’re a new subscriber, you can avail of a 7-day free trial on Apple TV Plus. You are also automatically eligible for a lengthy 3-month free trial if you have recently purchased an Apple device, like an iPhone, Mac, iPad, or the Apple TV 4K.
Once “Napoleon” is finally streaming on Apple TV Plus, you can watch the film by signing up for an account and subscribing to any of its membership plans below:
| Plan | Monthly Fee | Simultaneous Screens | Video Resolution |
| Stand-alone subscription | CAD$8.99 | 6 devices | HDR to 4K |
| Apple One bundle | CAD$18.95 | 6 devices | HDR to 4K |
2. Apple TV (VOD)
You can also buy or rent “Napoleon” digitally on Apple TV’s video-on-demand store. There, you can purchase the film for CAD$29.99 or rent it for CAD$24.99. “Napoleon” streams in 4K with Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision features, Audio Descriptions (AD), Closed Captions (CC), and subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing (SDH) in more than 30 languages. When renting, Apple TV typically gives users 30 days to start playing the film and 48 hours to finish it.
3. VUDU
VUDU is another great VOD alternative to buy or rent the “Napoleon” movie. There, “Napoleon” costs CAD$24.99 for purchase and CAD$19.99 for rent. The film streams in 4K on VUDU, with Dolby Vision, Dolby Digital Plus 5.1, and Closed Captions (CC) in English.
However, VUDU is only available in the US, so you must use a VPN to access it in Canada.
How to Rent or Buy“Napoleon” On VUDU In Canada
The only way to buy or rent “Napoleon” on VUDU in Canada is by using a VPN service:
- Subscribe to a VPN service. (ExpressVPN is our #1 recommendation)
- Download and install the VPN app on your preferred device.
- Connect to a server in the US.
- Open the VUDU website or app, then log in or sign up.
- Prepare a US-issued form of payment. VUDU accepts debit/credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, and VUDU or Fandango gift cards.
- Once registered, search for “Napoleon” in its library, and select “Buy” or “Rent.”
Tip: A VPN is beneficial not only for bypassing geo-restrictions; it also helps in enhancing your overall online security by masking your IP address, blocking harmful software from tracking your online transactions, and ensuring a secure connection when you’re using a public Wi-Fi network.
Canada legally allows the use of VPNs, but VUDU aggressively blocks IP addresses that are linked to known VPNs. But fret not – with ExpressVPN, our top VPN recommendation, rest assured that you’ll access VUDU in no time since it is known to securely and effectively bypass VUDU’s geo-restrictions outside the US.
On ExpressVPN, you can avail yourself of a 30-day risk-free trial and a 30-day money-back guarantee, if you click the link below:
4. Cineplex Store
The “Napoleon” movie is also available for rent and purchase at the Cineplex Store, the Canadian VOD platform. “Napoleon” costs CAD$33.99 for purchase and CAD$24.99 for rent. The film streams in HD with Closed Captions (CC). Like on Apple TV, you only have 30 days to start watching your rented film from the Cineplex Store and 48 hours to finish it.
5. Prime Video
Prime Video also offers the “Napoleon” movie for rent and purchase. On Prime Video, you can buy “Napoleon” for CAD$29.99 or rent it for CAD$24.99. The movie streams in HD and does not include any subtitles.
What Is Napoleon About?
The “Napoleon” film depicts France in shambles during the Reign of Terror. As mass executions and political violence dominated the country, Napoleon Bonaparte, an army officer with ingenious military prowess and leadership skills, gradually restored stability in France. The film also delves into his volatile yet notoriously promiscuous relationship with the aristocratic widow, Josephine de Beauharnais. In 1804, he was crowned Emperor of the French, and he would defeat countless enemies, conquer powerful nations, and successfully bring glory back to France. However, the emperor was ambitious and reckless, ultimately leading to his exile and death.
Who Directed Napoleon?
Ridley Scott, the critically acclaimed English filmmaker behind the historical epic “Gladiator,” directed “Napoleon.” He also co-produced it with Kevin J. Walsh, Mark Huffman, and Joaquin Phoenix, in partnership with Columbia Pictures and Apple Original Films.
Who Are in the Cast of Napoleon?
Taking on the titular role is “Joker” star Joaquin Phoenix with Vanessa Kirby from Netflix’s “The Crown,” as Josephine. Here’s the cast of “Napoleon”:
- Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon Bonaparte
- Vanessa Kirby as Empress Joséphine
- Tahar Rahim as Paul Barras
- Ben Miles as Caulaincourt
- Ludivine Sagnier as Thérésa Cabarrus (Madame Tallien)
- Matthew Needham as Lucien Bonaparte
- John Hollingworth as Marshal Ney
- Youssef Kerkour as Marshal Davout
- Sinéad Cusack as Letizia Bonaparte
- Phil Cornwell as Sanson ‘The Bourreau’
- Édouard Philipponnat as Alexander I
- Ian McNeice as Louis XVIII
- Rupert Everett as Arthur Wellesley
- Catherine Walker as Marie-Antoinette
- Mark Bonnar as Jean-Andoche Junot
- Anna Mawn as the Archduchess Marie-Louise
Who Are the Main Characters of Napoleon?
The main characters of “Napoleon” are based on real-life historical figures, including:
- Napoleon Bonaparte – Considered by many as one of the greatest military generals in history, Napoleon Bonaparte was a political and army leader who rose to power during the French Revolution.
- Josephine de Beauharnais – Napoleon’s first wife who was unable to give him a son.
Why Is the Napoleon Movie So Popular?
“Napoleon” gained significant buzz for its historical intrigue that appealed not only to moviegoers but also to viewers passionate about history. The film’s grand production value, which featured meticulously detailed sets, costumes, and visuals that perfectly captured the atmosphere of the French Revolution, further boosted the film’s appeal.
What Do Critics Say About Napoleon?
Despite the anticipation prior to its release, “Napoleon” received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While the film’s intense action sequences, grand production, and the lead actors’ performances were widely regarded, many were disappointed with the film’s seemingly shallow characterizations.
“Napoleon” scored a 58% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and an audience score of 59%. See what critics are saying about the film:
- “In the end, you get your money’s worth in extravaganza and cannon fire but not nearly enough of the charismatic personalities and bravura filmmaking a project this gargantuan needs.” – Ty Burr’s Watch List
- “Even when it goes off the rails, this epic take on the notorious French emperor boasts state-of-the-art battle scenes from master tactician Ridley Scott, 85, and a big acting swing from Joaquin Phoenix in a beast of a role that will keep you riveted.” – ABC News
