Waterloo (1970) Watch Online Free

Waterloo (1970) Watch Online

Waterloo (1970) Watch Online Free

Year: 1970 Rating: 72
Genres: Drama, History, War

After defeating France and imprisoning Napoleon on Elba, ending two decades of war, Europe is shocked to find Napoleon has escaped and has caused the French Army to defect from the King back to him. The best of the British generals, the Duke of Wellington, beat Napolean’s best generals in Spain and Portugal, but now must beat Napoleon himself with an Anglo Allied army.


Waterloo (1970) is a monumental historical war film directed by Sergei Bondarchuk, depicting the Battle of Waterloo, the decisive conflict that marked the end of Napoleon Bonaparte’s reign. With an ensemble cast featuring Rod Steiger as Napoleon, Christopher Plummer as the Duke of Wellington, and Orson Welles in a brief role, the film’s focus is on the events of June 18, 1815, leading to Napoleon’s final defeat.

Plot Overview

The movie primarily chronicles the buildup to the Battle of Waterloo, highlighting Napoleon’s military genius, the tense moments before the battle, and the chaotic, bloody confrontation that ensues. It explores the strategies and decisions of both Napoleon and Wellington as they prepare for the clash. The film covers significant moments, such as Napoleon’s strategy to attack the British-held positions at Hougoumont and La Haye Sainte, and the eventual arrival of the Prussian forces, led by Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher, which turns the tide in favor of the Allies.

Despite some liberties taken with historical accuracy for cinematic flair, such as minor alterations in the battlefield’s geography and a few dramatic interpretations of character decisions, the film strives to capture the intensity and significance of the battle. It portrays the battle in grand scale, showcasing the vast armies and the emotional turmoil of the commanders and their soldiers as they face certain destruction.

Analysis and Themes

“Waterloo” presents several central themes:

  1. Leadership and Legacy: The film contrasts Napoleon’s ambitious leadership with Wellington’s calm, measured strategy. While Napoleon is depicted as bold and determined, his overconfidence and failure to account for key details ultimately lead to his downfall. In contrast, Wellington’s cautious, defensive approach highlights the importance of perseverance, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.
  2. Fate and Hubris: Napoleon’s downfall is marked by his failure to recognize his own limitations and the changing political and military landscape. His decision to engage in the battle, despite suffering from health issues and the pressing threat of Prussian reinforcements, reflects his tragic flaw: hubris. The film portrays his eventual realization of his failure as both a personal and political tragedy.
  3. The Cost of War: The film does not shy away from the brutal realities of war, showing the immense human cost of the battle. The scenes of soldiers being mowed down by gunfire and cavalry charges emphasize the futility and devastation of the conflict, while underscoring the futility of war itself.
  4. History and Memory: “Waterloo” serves as a meditation on the role of history in shaping public memory. The portrayal of both Napoleon and Wellington as flawed human beings, rather than mythologized figures, humanizes them and invites reflection on how historical figures are remembered and understood.

10 Reasons to Watch “Waterloo” (1970)

  1. Historical Epic: With its massive scale and attention to detail, “Waterloo” is a rare historical epic that captures the grandeur of the 19th century.
  2. Impressive Battle Sequences: The battle scenes are among the most ambitious ever filmed, with thousands of extras and meticulously choreographed combat.
  3. Authentic Costumes and Set Design: The film features stunning recreations of the period’s military uniforms, landscapes, and architecture, providing an immersive experience.
  4. Strong Performances: Rod Steiger’s intense portrayal of Napoleon and Christopher Plummer’s calm, stoic Wellington add depth to the historical figures they embody.
  5. Orson Welles’ Cameo: The legendary actor brings a sense of gravitas to his brief but memorable role as King Louis XVIII.
  6. Educational Value: The film offers insight into the Napoleonic Wars and the critical Battle of Waterloo, ideal for history buffs.
  7. Cinematic Scope: The film is a visual marvel, showcasing vast landscapes, large-scale battle formations, and sweeping shots of the armies.
  8. Cultural Impact: As one of the most significant depictions of the Napoleonic Wars on screen, “Waterloo” has had a lasting impact on how this era is viewed in cinema.
  9. Epic Soundtrack: The score, composed by the legendary Nino Rota, heightens the drama and emotion of the battle scenes.
  10. Philosophical Depth: The film doesn’t just focus on military tactics but delves into themes of leadership, fate, and the tragedy of war.

Emotions After Watching

After watching “Waterloo,” viewers are likely to feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of the battle and the complexities of the historical figures involved. The portrayal of Napoleon’s tragic downfall may evoke sympathy, while Wellington’s quiet resolve can inspire admiration. The film’s brutal depiction of war, with its high human cost, is likely to leave viewers reflecting on the futility of violence and the heavy toll of historical events.

While the movie is filled with grand battle scenes and historical significance, it also provides moments of quiet introspection, prompting viewers to contemplate not only the past but also the human condition—our capacity for ambition, the consequences of hubris, and the importance of making decisions that impact not just individual lives but entire nations.

“Waterloo” is not only a cinematic spectacle but also a thought-provoking exploration of history’s most defining moments. It is a film that stays with the viewer long after the credits roll, leaving them pondering the lessons of the past and how they resonate in the present