Napoleon’s invasion of Surrey!

22 years after Ridley Scott shot Gladiator in same woods near Farnham, he’s directing Joaquin Phoenix’s assault on Russia

HIS dream of conquering England never became reality.

But it seems Napoleon Bonaparte has finally made it to our shores – two centuries late.

For Oscar-winner Joaquin Phoenix transformed into the French emperor for his latest movie as filming got under way near Farnham, Surrey.

The US actor, 47, joined hundreds of cast members in Bourne Wood to recreate the 1812 invasion of Russia. It is the second time director Sir Ridley Scott has used the location, having shot Gladiator there in 2000.

The biopic, called Napoleon, will be released on Apple TV+ next year.

2000

Charge! Cast members, top and above, in Bourne Wood recreate the 1812 French invasion of Russia

Blockbuster: The same location in Sir Ridley’s Gladiator

Director: Sir Ridley Scott (circled) on the set