Cutler to play Napoleon in major bio-pic

The local actor has signed to play the title role in a big-budget bio-pic to be directed by veteran French filmmaker Abel Gance. The film is to be Gance's long-awaited remake of his own 1927 silent epic, which has long been hailed by critics and film historians for its groundbreaking cinematic technique. "When Abel called me to audition for the part, I didn't hesitate," Cutler said. "He is one of my all-time favourite directors, so to work with him is a dream come true for me."

At six feet six inches, Cutler is considered the perfect choice to play the role of the Little Corporal, who is said to have stood just under five feet four inches in his stocking feet.

The Canada-France production is scheduled to begin shooting this summer in Quebec City, with the Plains of Abraham doubling for the battlefield at Waterloo. Many of the interiors will be shot in Montreal, at Westmounter Mel Hoppenheim's extraordinary Cité du Cinéma facilities. Exterior scenes set in Elba and Ste. Hélena will be shot in Laval.

Though Cutler is the only confirmed cast member so far, Celine Dion's office has stated that the Quebec diva is "very interested" in playing Josephine and has even been practicing the line "Let them eat cake!" at every available opportunity.

In preparing for the role, Cutler said he is eating a lot of snails, drinking Napoleon brandy, and most importantly, keeping one hand tucked firmly in the breast of his jacket. "Napoleon was one of the biggest personalities of the 19th century," he said. "He was a hero to some, and a villain to others. But above all he was basically an idiot — and that's how I intend to play him."