On the isle of Elba in 1814, the exiled Napoleon (Daniel Auteuil) finds himself welcomed by most of the residents. Not so easily swayed is an idealistic and obsessive young teacher named Martino (Elio Germano) who sees his chance to assassinate the ex-dictator when he is hired as Napoleon’s secretary. Complicating matters is the comely Baroness Emilia (Monica Bellucci), who is involved with the young scribe. Amid intellectual parrying and romantic pairing, the question of who is manipulating whom constantly shifts. Rooted in the tradition of commedia all’italiana and aided by terrific performances in lead and supporting roles, Napoleon (and Me) effortlessly combines comedy and historical drama with an effervescent touch.

Written by Furio Scarpelli, Giacomo Scarpelli, Francesco Bruni, Paolo Virzi. Photographed by Alessandro Pesci. With Daniel Auteuil, Elio Germano, Monica Bellucci, Sabrina Impacciatore (110 min. Medusa Film).