Joaquin Phoenix has secured his first post-Joker role, signing on to star in Ridley Scott‘s Napoleon film, Kitbag.
David Scarpa, who penned Scott’s 2017 crime film All The Money In The World, is working on the script, and Scott will produce the historical drama alongside Kevin Walsh via his Scott Free banner. The film is in development at 20th Century Studios, where Scott Free has a first-look deal.
Kitbag apparently takes its title from the saying “There is a general’s staff hidden in every soldier’s kitbag”. Phoenix, who’s around 5’8″, will play the French military leader, is thought to have been about 5’6″.
But his presence loomed larger on the battlefield. The film will examine Napoleon‘s origins and chronicle his ruthless rise to power, while also exploring his volatile relationship with his wife, Josephine.
Scott has always had an interest in historical epics. He’s made films such as Gladiator (which Phoenix was in), Kingdom Of Heaven and Exodus: Gods And Kings, so it’s no surprise he’s involved with this kind of project. Expect bookies to start taking bets on another Phoenix Best Actor nomination too, because this role + this actor is tailor made for awards recognition.
Scott finally wrapped production on The Last Duel this week in Ireland after a COVID-19 shutdown. That film stars Adam Driver, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Jodie Comer, and revolves around the last sanctioned duel in 14th century France.
Scott also has Gucci in the works, which stars Driver again alongside Lady Gaga, Robert De Niro, Al Pacino and Jared Leto.
Phoenix will have another film out before this one. It’s called C’mon C’mon, is directed by Mike Mills (20th Century Women) and will be distributed by A24. Look out for that one for your Phoenix fix, as Kitbag likely won’t be able to film until 2022 due to Scott’s other projects.
#Peace.Love.Kitbag
