In the heart of Corsica, a young Bonaparte feels trapped between his roots and his overwhelming ambitions. The story begins in his childhood, where his dreams, family conflicts, and unique approach to military education are explored. From an outset marked by adversity, young Napoleon faces the prejudices of those who see nothing beyond his Corsican surname, but that does not deter him from his goal of becoming a leader.
As the narrative unfolds, the development of the main character intertwines with the French Revolution, a turbulent context that paves the way for his rise. We meet a passionate and determined Napoleon, whose impressive character and boundless ambition soon capture the attention of his superiors. His life on the battlefield, confronting enemies and building alliances, will be a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
The film, known for its innovative use of cinematic techniques for the time, captures the essence of Bonaparte's determination and audacity. Through splendid imagery and dramatizations, Abel Gance paints a vivid portrait of a budding genius while leaving us with the promise of greatness in the second part of his story. The first part thus becomes an epic fresco that invites viewers to follow in the footsteps of the future emperor before he becomes a legend.