Cleopatra (1963) Review: A Grand Historical Epic
Introduction
“Cleopatra” (1963), directed by Joseph Langes and starring Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison, is a grand historical epic that portrays the life of the legendary Egyptian queen. Known for its lavish production, intricate historical details, and dramatic performances, the film remains a classic in the genre of historical drama. Despite its troubled production and mixed critical reception, “Cleopatra” is celebrated for its opulence and ambitious scope.
In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, themes, and production, and provide information on where you can stream or purchase “Cleopatra” online in the U.S.
Plot Overview
“Cleopatra” depicts the life and reign of Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. The film covers significant events in her life, including her relationships with two of Rome’s most powerful leaders: Julius Caesar (Rex Harrison) and Mark Antony (Richard Burton). It chronicles her rise to power, her romantic entanglements, and the political machinations that shape the fate of Egypt and Rome.
The film begins with Cleopatra’s efforts to secure her position on the Egyptian throne and her strategic alliance with Julius Caesar. As their relationship deepens, Cleopatra becomes entangled in the complex political landscape of Rome. Following Caesar’s assassination, she aligns herself with Mark Antony, leading to further political intrigue and conflict with Rome’s rulers.
The climax of the film centers on the dramatic and tragic final confrontation between Cleopatra and Octavian (later Augustus Caesar), which results in the fall of Egypt and the end of Cleopatra’s reign.
Themes and Emotional Impact
“Cleopatra” explores themes of power, ambition, and political intrigue. The film delves into the complexities of leadership and the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of power. Cleopatra’s relationships with Caesar and Antony are central to the narrative, highlighting the interplay between personal desires and political strategies.
The film also examines the clash of cultures and the influence of Roman politics on Egyptian sovereignty. The portrayal of Cleopatra as a powerful and enigmatic leader underscores the historical significance of her reign and the impact of her actions on the ancient world.
The emotional impact of the film is enhanced by its dramatic portrayal of Cleopatra’s rise and fall. The film’s grand scale and elaborate sets contribute to the sense of historical epicness, while the personal drama of Cleopatra’s relationships adds depth to her character.
Performances and Direction
Elizabeth Taylor delivers a memorable performance as Cleopatra, capturing both the queen’s regal presence and her emotional depth. Taylor’s portrayal is both glamorous and nuanced, bringing a sense of grandeur and vulnerability to the role.
Richard Burton’s performance as Mark Antony is intense and charismatic, adding a strong presence to the film’s romantic and political drama. Rex Harrison’s portrayal of Julius Caesar is commanding and authoritative, providing a solid foundation for the film’s historical context.
Joseph L. Mankiewicz’s direction is notable for its epic scope and attention to historical detail. Mankiewicz’s vision brings the ancient world to life with elaborate sets, costumes, and battle scenes. Despite the film’s lengthy runtime and production challenges, Mankiewicz’s direction succeeds in creating a visually stunning and immersive experience.
The screenplay, co-written by Mankiewicz, Ranald MacDougall, and Sidney Buchman, is rich in historical detail and dramatic dialogue. The script effectively captures the political and personal conflicts of the time, contributing to the film’s overall impact.
Cinematography and Music
The cinematography by Leon Shamroy is a highlight of the film, showcasing the grandeur and opulence of ancient Egypt and Rome. Shamroy’s use of vibrant colors, sweeping camera movements, and detailed set designs creates a visually striking and immersive experience.
The film’s score, composed by Alfred Newman, complements its epic scope and emotional depth. Newman’s music adds to the film’s grandeur and enhances its dramatic moments, reinforcing the historical and emotional aspects of the story.
Where to Watch “Cleopatra” Online in the U.S.
For those interested in watching “Cleopatra,” several streaming services and platforms in the United States offer the film for streaming, rental, or purchase:
Streaming Services:
- Hulu: “Cleopatra” is available to stream with a Hulu subscription. It is part of Hulu’s library of classic films.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film can be streamed with an Amazon Prime subscription. It may also be available for rent or purchase directly on the platform.
Rental and Purchase Options:
- Amazon Prime Video: You can rent “Cleopatra” in HD for approximately $3.99 or purchase it for around $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film is available for rent or purchase on Google Play, with rental options starting at $3.99 and purchase prices around $14.99.
- Apple iTunes: On iTunes, “Cleopatra” can be rented for $3.99 or purchased for $14.99. The film is available in HD, with the option to download for offline viewing.
- Vudu: Vudu offers both rental and purchase options for “Cleopatra,” with similar pricing to other platforms. The film supports HDX viewing for high-quality playback.
Conclusion
“Cleopatra” (1963) is a visually spectacular and ambitious historical epic that captures the grandeur of ancient Egypt and the dramatic events of Cleopatra VII’s reign. With its elaborate production design, strong performances, and epic storytelling, the film remains a classic in the genre of historical drama.
Whether you are drawn to its historical significance, its portrayal of one of history’s most iconic figures, or its lavish production values, “Cleopatra” offers a compelling and immersive cinematic experience. With various streaming and rental options available, it’s easy to access this grand historical epic and explore the life and legacy of Cleopatra.
