New Ridley Scott picture shows volatile nature of French emperor’s relationship with his wife, but campaigners worry it sends a bad message
Women’s groups have warned that depictions of Napoleon’s relationship with Josephine in a spectacular new biopic could inadvertently glamourise domestic violence.
Sir Ridley Scott’s Napoleon includes scenes in which the French emperor slaps his wife over their divorce.
The film is understood to depict the volatile, sometimes violent relationship between the couple, played by Joaquin Phoenix and Vanessa Kirby.
But campaigners have warned that the glamorous historical setting and costume drama format of Napoleon could trivialise what is an abusive relationship.