A Royal Divorce (1938 film)

A Royal Divorce is a 1938 British historical drama film directed by Alexander Korda. The film stars Charles Laughton, Merle Oberon, and Flora Robson. It is a fictionalized account of the marriage and divorce of Napoleon Bonaparte and Joséphine de Beauharnais, focusing primarily on Napoleon's ambition and its impact on his personal life.

The film depicts Napoleon's rise to power, his marriage to Joséphine, his military campaigns, and ultimately, his decision to divorce her to secure an heir. The narrative highlights the political pressures and sacrifices involved in maintaining power, contrasting Napoleon's public image with his private struggles. While drawing inspiration from historical events, A Royal Divorce takes liberties with historical accuracy for dramatic effect.

The film was produced during a period of increased interest in historical dramas and royal narratives. While not critically acclaimed as some of Korda's other productions, it provided a platform for Laughton to deliver a memorable performance as Napoleon. It explores themes of ambition, love, duty, and the human cost of power.