Where to watch Emperor in Australia
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About Emperor
An escaped slave travels north and has chance encounters with Frederick Douglass and John Brown. Based on the life story of Shields Green.
- Year
- 2020
- Genres
- Drama, Biography, History
- Runtime
- 94mins
- Director
- Mark Amin
- Top cast
- Dayo Okeniyi, Bruce Dern, James Cromwell, Kat Graham, Ben Robson
Emperor trailer
Play video: Emperor trailer
What our critics think
Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.
Review Team
★★★★★4/5
Emperor is a gripping historical drama that shines a light on the life of Shields Green, an escaped slave whose journey north brings him face to face with pivotal figures like Frederick Douglass and John Brown. Directed by Mark Amin, the film presents a poignant exploration of freedom, identity, and the moral complexities of resistance. The performances are commendable, particularly that of the lead actor, who brings depth and nuance to the character of Green. The cinematography captures the era's stark realities, immersing the viewer in the emotional weight of the narrative. While the pacing occasionally falters, the film ultimately delivers a powerful message about the enduring fight for justice. It is a must-watch for those interested in historical narratives that resonate with contemporary issues.
Editor Team
★★★★★3/5
Emperor tries to weave a compelling tale from the life of Shields Green, but it sometimes feels like it struggles under the weight of its ambitions. The film has its moments, especially when it features the interactions between Green and historical icons like Douglass and Brown, but it often feels like a checklist of important events rather than a cohesive story. The performances are solid, but the emotional depth can be hit or miss. Some scenes resonate, while others seem rushed or underdeveloped. If you’re looking for a straightforward historical drama, you might find Emperor somewhat lacking in its execution, yet it’s still worth a watch for its themes of freedom and resistance.
How viewers describe this
- compelling
- poignant
- thought-provoking
- intense
- emotional
- historical
- uneven
- powerful
- resonant
- gripping
- underdeveloped
- ambitious
Streaming Charts
The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.
| Rank | Title | Highest Rank | Streaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | 03 | ||
| 02 | 07 | ||
| 03 | 08 | ||
| 04 | 11 | ||
| 05 | 12 | ||
| 06 | 14 | ||
| 07 | 16 | ||
| 08 | 17 | ||
| 09 | 18 | ||
| 10 | 22 |
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Got a question about Emperor?
Is Emperor worth watching?
Yes, Emperor is worth watching for its compelling portrayal of historical figures and the struggles of an escaped slave. The film offers a poignant look at themes of freedom and justice, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
What is Emperor really about?
Emperor follows the story of Shields Green, an escaped slave who journeys north, encountering notable historical figures like Frederick Douglass and John Brown. The film explores themes of resistance, identity, and the fight for freedom during a tumultuous period in American history.
Is Emperor based on a true story?
Yes, Emperor is based on the true story of Shields Green, a man who escaped slavery and played a significant role in the abolitionist movement. The film highlights his experiences and interactions with historical figures who influenced the fight against slavery.
What happens at the end of Emperor? (Spoilers)
At the end of Emperor, Shields Green's fate is intertwined with the larger narrative of the abolitionist movement. The film concludes with a sense of hope and determination, reflecting the ongoing struggle for justice and equality, though it leaves some aspects of his life open to interpretation.
Where can I watch Emperor in Australia?
Emperor is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon Prime Video and may also be available for rent or purchase on other digital platforms. Check your preferred service for availability.
Is Emperor suitable for children?
Emperor is rated M for mature themes and violence, making it more suitable for older children and teenagers. Parents should consider the film's content before allowing younger viewers to watch.
Is Emperor scary?
While Emperor is not a horror film, it contains intense scenes depicting the harsh realities of slavery and violence. These moments can be unsettling, but they serve to highlight the film's serious themes rather than to instill fear.
What films are similar to Emperor?
Films similar to Emperor include 12 Years a Slave, Harriet, and Glory. These films also explore themes of slavery, freedom, and the fight against oppression, providing powerful narratives that reflect historical struggles.
Is there a sequel to Emperor?
As of now, there is no sequel to Emperor. The film stands alone, focusing on Shields Green's story and his impact during the abolitionist movement.