Brian Cox denounces Joaquin Phoenix’s ‘appalling’ acting in Napoleon

While many critics have praised Joaquin Phoenix for his performance in his latest film, actor Brian Cox was left less than impressed.

In fact, Cox thinks he himself could have played the role even better than Phoenix and publicly stated as much.

As the film title Napoleon would suggest, the movie details the rise and fall of the French Emperor, looking at his journey to power and showcasing his feats and flaws to the audience.

The film has been a bit of a mixed bag from both critics and fans, with critics giving it a 57 percent tomatometer score while audience gave it 59 percent.

Over on IMDB, the film also scored a 6.4 out of 10 following 137,000 reviews.

So maybe not the best film in the world, but Phoenix has received praise for his efforts... just not from Cox.

Speaking of the film at London’s HistFest earlier this week, the Succession actor simply said ‘it’s terrible.’

“A truly terrible performance by Joaquin Phoenix,” he added.

“It really is appalling. I don’t know what he was thinking. I think it’s totally his fault and I don’t think [director] Ridley Scott helps him.

As the film title Napoleon would suggest, the movie details the rise and fall of the French Emperor. (Apple TV+/Colombia Pictures)

“I would have played it a lot better than Joaquin Phoenix, I tell you that. You can say it’s good drama. No — it’s lies. I think he’s well named. Joaquin … wackeen … wacky. It’s a sort of wacky performance,”

I guess Cox didn’t feel like holding back that morning!

But with that being said, some fans on social media have rejoiced at the film being different from usual movie fodder and praised Phoenix for his performance and director Ridley Scott for his direction.

"Finally a movie that is worth going to the cinema for. Thank god there are still filmmakers like Ridley Scott," one social media user wrote.

"You don't know how refreshing it is to see a movie that isn't yet another mind-numbing special effects extravaganza.” praised another.

Brian Cox has said Joaquin Phoenix gave a terrible performance in Napoleon. (Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic for HBO)

"Music, the cinematography, the action, how does Ridley Scott make the best big battle movies in cinema? He's one of the greatest artists of our lifetime,” a third wrote.

"Wow! Haven’t seen a huge war epic like this since Troy, Lord of the Rings, and Gladiator! This looks wicked sweet!! The soundtrack is especially chilling,” another commented.

And while the critical reception is pretty split, for those that did praise the film, some have regarded it a brilliant biopic and bold film.

UNILAD have contacted Joaquin Phoenix's representatives for comment.