Watch The Emperor of Paris

The Emperor of Paris is a historical drama film released in 2018 that is directed by Jean-Francois Richet. It stars Vincent Cassel in the lead role, supported by Patrick Chesnais and August Diehl. The movie is set in early 19th century France, during the Napoleonic era. We are introduced to François Vidocq, played by Cassel, who is a notorious thief and prison escapee. After being imprisoned for the umpteenth time, Vidocq manages to make a deal with the police to become an informant. His task is to infiltrate a gang of criminals who have been stealing urgently needed war supplies from under the army's nose.

As we follow Vidocq's escapades, we are also introduced to a host of other interesting characters - his loyal confidant Nimier, his estranged love interest Annette, and the intelligent police officer Henry, who is tasked with keeping Vidocq in check. There are also multiple villains, including the antagonist Lautrec, who is spearheading the theft ring.

The Emperor of Paris successfully captures the tumultuous atmosphere of post-revolutionary France. The streets are dirty, the people are starving, and crime is rampant. The film captures Vidocq's personal vendetta against the corrupt officials and criminals that made his life difficult. He is a complex character, often balancing between his loyalty to his friends and his allegiance to the police.

One of the most impressive aspects of the film is its visual appeal. The streets of Paris are captured with stunning attention to detail, and the costumes are exquisite. The film perfectly captures the mood of the era, depicting the harsh realities of French life at that time.

The film's cast is also impressive. Vincent Cassel delivers a commanding performance as Vidocq, portraying him as a cunning and charismatic criminal. Patrick Chesnais is also memorable as the world-weary police officer, Henry. August Diehl plays Lautrec with a deftness that is both aggressive and cunning.

The Emperor of Paris is not without its flaws, however. There are scenes that drag on too long, and the plot can be convoluted at times. However, despite these minor complaints, the film is an entertaining experience that will immerse the viewer in the world of post-revolutionary France.

In conclusion, The Emperor of Paris is a historical drama that captures the spirit of 19th century France. The film offers a thrilling and gripping story, brought to life by a talented cast and stunning visuals. It is a must-watch for any fan of historical dramas or Vincent Cassel's work.

The Emperor of Paris is a 2018 action movie with a runtime of 2 hours. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3.