Cleopatra (1963) – Determined to hold on to the throne, Cleopatra seduces the Roman emperor Julius Caesar. When Caesar is murdered, she redirects her attentions to his general, Marc Antony, who vows to take power—but Caesar’s successor has other plans.
Director:Â Joseph L. Mankiewicz (All About Eve, Suddenly, Last Summer)
Writer:Â Joseph L. Mankiewicz, Ranald MacDougall, Sidney Buchman (based on the book by Carlo Maria Franzero)
Release Date:Â June 12, 1963
Domestic Box Office:Â $57.7 million
The Good:
- The film’s production values are stunning, with lavish sets and costumes.
- The performances by Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton are praised by critics.
- The film is a sweeping epic that tells the story of one of history’s most famous figures.
The Bad:
- The film is long and slow-paced.
- The production was troubled, with numerous delays and budget overruns.
- The film’s historical accuracy has been criticized.
Top 5 Cast:
- Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra
- Richard Burton as Mark Antony
- Rex Harrison as Julius Caesar
- Roddy McDowall as Octavian
- Martin Landau as Rufus
“I am fire. I am life. I am Cleopatra.” – Cleopatra
Critical Reviews:
- The New York Times:Â “A magnificent film, a feast for the eyes and ears.”
- The Washington Post:Â “A triumph of filmmaking, with stunning visuals and performances.”
- Variety:Â “A sprawling, epic film that is both entertaining and historically significant.”
- The Hollywood Reporter:Â “A must-see for any fan of historical epics.”
- Time Out:Â “A classic film that is still as relevant today as it was when it was first released.”
Cinematic Importance: Cleopatra (1963) is one of the most expensive and acclaimed films ever made. It was nominated for 14 Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Cinematography, Best Costume Design, Best Art Direction, and Best Visual Effects. The film is considered a landmark in the history of cinema, and it helped to solidify the careers of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.