Having never read the book of the same name, I initially expected a grand tale of Napoleon's return to glory. Soon, however, I saw that would not be the case. Throughout, the movie teases with the prospect of Napoleon's return to glory, and, at times, the slower times anywaym, I found myself hoping for such a turn. The actual plot, however, was much sweeter with many very amusing moments.

The story itself, along with the vast majority of the acting, is fabulous. However, like many "small stories," the film drags at times. Try not to let that spoil your enjoyment and you'll find yourself watching a sweet and funny movie.

For those who never fail to be overwhelmed by the amazing acting skills of this man, you won't be disappointed. He performs the role of Napoleon just as well as he has performed Napoleon previously, or Bilbo Baggins, or a Pharisee, or an evil doctor (as he did in the aforementioned films, respectively).

If you're not familiar with the story of Napoleon (I'm not all that familiar with it myself), you'll still be throughly entertained if you're the kind of person who likes a well-developed plot, well-developed and believable characters, and fantastic acting.

I'm not an astute enough student of history to be able to say exactly what type of man (at least, in terms of virtue) Napoleon was. I've heard that he was a tragic fallen leader of Europe from some sources. And from others I've heard that he was almost on the same plane as Hitler. But this film - showing his life and mind through the brilliant dramatic acting of Ian Holm - has definitely made me want to study more about what manner of man he really was.

It's almost impossible to tell where "Emperor" is heading, and I don't want to spoil the surprises, so you will just have to take my word that this is a fine, fun, film and Ian Holm, as always, is a joy on screen. Music is by Rachel Portman ("Chocolat") and the direction is tight and intelligent by Alan Taylor. A lot of fun.