Educational Media Reviews Online

This film is a classic example of the manner in which art can be used as propaganda. Jacques Louis David, a successful neoclassical painter during the last half of the eighteenth century, became Napoleon’s official painter in 1799. From then until 1815, he glorified the reign of Napoleon in massive, romantic canvases.

A large portion of the film is dedicated to showing, in great detail, the creation of perhaps the most famous painting of this period by David, “Napoleon’s Coronation.” During an extended discussion of the creation of this enormous 20 by 30 foot canvas we are shown the many sketches and miniature models David used as guides, the alterations that were demanded by Napoleon and the identity and placement of many of the historic individuals in the painting. The political expediency which led David to depict the moment when Napoleon is about to crown Josephine as his empress instead of the moment Napoleon crowned himself as emperor is thoroughly discussed by the narrator, Frédéric Cerdal.

David glorified and romanticized many aspects of Napoleon’s reign. For example, the portrait titled “Napoleon Crossing the Alps” shows a vigorous commander astride a fiery rearing steed. In reality, Napoleon made the journey on a mule. David’s style involved dramatic lighting, ideal forms and simplicity of gesture and these techniques lent themselves admirably to the sort of image Napoleon wished to present to his public.

Other French painters, British cartoonists and several silent films also had opinions on Napoleon’s military and political career. Their works are contrasted delightfully with the flamboyant David canvases. Crisp camera work, smooth transitions, excellent lighting and fascinating insights into the creation of a masterpiece make this a film recommended for all college programs which have media, history or art history programs.