Color, PG (some mature themes, mild language), 106 min., VHS rental, DVD $29.99
DVD: no extras
Street: Dec. 10, Prebook: Nov. 18 (DVD Oct. 29)
First Run: L, June 2002, $$1 mil.
Cast: Ian Holm (The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring), Iben Hjejle (High Fidelity),
Tim McInnery (Notting Hill),
Nigel Terry (FearDotCom)
Director: Alan Taylor
PARAMOUNT
Story Line: Deposed emperor Napoleon Bonaparte (Holm) escapes exile by switching identities with lower class look-alike Eugene (Holm). The plan is that once Napoleon reaches Paris, Eugene will reveal himself as an imposter to his British captors on the island and France will restore the now-free emperor to his throne. However, problems and a Napoleonic Complex ensue.
Bottom Line: Splendid performances and an intriguing, humorous tale of speculative history add up to a superior sophisticated comedy, with healthy doses of drama and romance in the mix as well. TV director Taylor (Oz, Six Feet Under) has a lot of fun with Holm, who glides through his dual role with grace and wit. The British supporting cast is excellent, and the period sets and costumes are sumptuous. Ditto for Rachel Portman's classically themed orchestral score, which gives the story authority and dignity and keeps the pace brisk. Make sure your Ideal Husband/Importance of Being Earnest crowd knows about this one. --Buzz McClain