Movie Discussion: Waterloo (1970) — Could Napoleon have won?

Waterloo is a 1970 English-language epic historical war film that dramatizes the Battle of Waterloo, the climactic confrontation that ended Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule in 1815. A co-production between Italy and the Soviet Union, the film was directed by Sergei Bondarchuk and produced by Dino De Laurentiis. It features an all-star cast, including Rod Steiger as Napoleon Bonaparte, Christopher Plummer as the Duke of Wellington, and Orson Welles in a cameo role as Louis XVIII of France. Supporting roles are played by Jack Hawkins as General Sir Thomas Picton, Virginia McKenna as the Duchess of Richmond, and Dan O'Herlihy as Marshal Ney.

The film employs a unique narrative style, with Steiger and Plummer often providing voice-over monologues that delve into the inner thoughts of Napoleon and Wellington. This technique adds psychological depth to the characters, offering insights into their strategies, fears, and motivations. Rather than glorifying one side over the other, *Waterloo* maintains a largely neutral stance, portraying the heroism and sacrifices of soldiers and leaders on both sides. The film meticulously reconstructs the chronology of the battle, capturing the chaos, bravery, and devastating loss of life that defined this historic event.

One of the film’s most remarkable achievements is its grand-scale battle sequences, which were shot on-location in Uzhhorod, Ukraine. Using 15,000 authentically dressed extras, the film recreates the battle with unprecedented realism, avoiding reliance on special effects. This approach not only enhances the visual authenticity but also underscores the sheer scale and human cost of the conflict. To this day, *Waterloo* holds the record for the largest number of costumed extras in any film.

Despite its technical brilliance and ambitious scope, *Waterloo* received mixed reviews upon its release. Some critics praised its epic scale and attention to historical detail, while others found its pacing uneven and its character development lacking. Nevertheless, the film earned several accolades, including BAFTA Awards for Best Costume Design and Best Art Direction, as well as the 1971 David di Donatello for Best Film.

From an analytical perspective, *Waterloo* stands out as a cinematic achievement in its portrayal of historical events. Bondarchuk’s direction emphasizes the human element of war, focusing on the individual experiences of soldiers and commanders rather than reducing the battle to a mere spectacle. The film’s neutral perspective invites viewers to reflect on the futility and tragedy of war, transcending nationalistic narratives. Its lavish production design and commitment to authenticity set a benchmark for historical epics, influencing later films in the genre.

For the discussion, please watch the movie in advance, available here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9uL2K5DgkQ