Joaquin Phoenix to play Napoleon in Ridley Scott’s latest historical epic

Move over, Terry Camilleri (BILL & TED'S EXCELLENT ADVENTURE) because it's time for Joaquin Phoenix to take a crack at playing the part of French military leader and emperor Napoleon Bonaparte. Phoenix will reteam with GLADIATOR filmmaker Ridley Scott for the director's next epic, titled KITBAG. The project is being set up at 20th Century Studios, where Scott Free has a first-look deal. Scott has tasked screenwriter David Scarpa -, who wrote the Scott-directed ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD – to pen the script for his film based on the short-statured artillery commander.

According to Deadline, the film’s title is derived from the saying “There is a general’s staff hidden in every soldier’s kitbag." The film is an original and personal look at Napoleon’s origins and his swift, ruthless climb to the status of emperor, viewed through the prism of his addictive and often volatile relationship with his wife and one true love, Josephine. The intention of the film is to capture Napoleon’s famous battles, relentless ambition, and astounding strategic mind as an extraordinary military leader and war visionary.

Just today Scott wrapped production on THE LAST DUEL, starring Matt Damon, Adam Driver, Jodie Comer, Ben Affleck, Harriet Walter, and Nathaniel Parker, among others. The drama tells the story of when King Charles VI declares that Knight Jean de Carrouges settle his dispute with his squire by challenging him to a duel. While most filmmakers would take some time off after completing an ambitious project, Scott is already gearing up for the production of GUCCI, which stars Lady Gaga as the murderess Patrizia Reggiani. GUCCI also stars Robert De Niro, Al Pacino, Adam Driver, and Jared Leto, so best prepare yourselves for that bit of business, when it hits.

What do you think about Scott of Phoenix reteaming for another epic filled with battleplans and bloodshed? How method do you think Phoenix will go when preparing for the role of Napoleon Bonaparte? Sound off in the comments section below.