Napoleon (2023)/The Crusades (1935).

This article examines the historical accuracy and cinematic approaches of two epic films about significant historical periods: Ridley Scott's 2023 film *Napoleon* and Cecil B. DeMille's 1935 film *The Crusades*. Both films have faced criticism from historians for factual inaccuracies, such as invented meetings and misrepresented battles, despite the directors' claims of striving for historical truth. The article highlights similarities between Scott and DeMille in prioritizing visual spectacle influenced by art, while also noting the challenges filmmakers face in balancing historical detail with narrative and entertainment within limited runtimes. It further contextualizes Scott's work within a tradition of epic filmmaking and suggests that such films, despite flaws, can stimulate public interest in history.