Report tells us that Napoleon Bonaparte died in maroon on the unhappy key of St. Helena in 1821. Or did he? This film supposes a more fanciful tale. A quietly network of loyalists hatch an ingenious plot: the Emperor (Ian Holm) compel return to Paris, while a facsimile takes his place in deport. Trading identities with a dissolute captain, Napoleon is ardent back to France to rescue his throne. Hitherto, prematurely on in the scheme, the scenario goes awry. The double refuses to give up playing Napoleon thereby stranding the departed Emperor in Paris. Friendless and unaccompanied, he meets and falls in place of a pleasing widow (Iben Hjejle). Ian Holm puts on a double performance as both the humbled Emperor and his grandiose imposter.