Napoleon (DVD 2005)

I watched the French version of this series here in Brazil with subtitles in Portuguese and enjoyed it very much although I missed many of the innuendos becuase my poor knowleage in French. But I can assure it is a very envolving story, excelent custome design and amazing photography. I read the production of the series cost around US$ 50 million whic isn´t hard to believe seeing the battle scenes and wonderful reproductions of the uniforms. How could a country in such misery afford such military uniforms? Although there are 6 hours to watch, split in four 90 minute episodes, there is not much depth in the main episodes of Napoleon´s life. Fot those who are familiar with his history, it is a bit frustrating to see the Russian campaign squeezed in less than 10 minutes as well as the Austerlitz and Waterloo battles. Many important events are just mentioned, but the pace of the story at least gives the viewer no opportunity to become board. Certainly a great start for who ever wants to become more familiar with the history. The casting is fabulous, specially John Malkovitch´s role as Talleyrand, an arrogant and brilliant French aristocrat that advices Napolen on foreign affairs. Christian Clavier plays a very convincing Napoleon, arrogant even in his desgrace. I am really impressioned with what I watch and want to see it again now in English. Highly recommended.