To Kirby, it’s these “messy, contradictory, anti-heroine-type parts” (she mentions Gena Rowlands’ work with John Cassavetes) that inspire her. It’s also what drew her to Joséphine.

Vanessa Kirby attends the “Napoleon” U.K. premiere Nov. 16 at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London. (Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images) Gazing out of “Napoleon” with sly, cat-eyed ...