Cleopatra in Film: Elizabeth Taylor and Her Role

Introduction

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The year was 1956, and two powerful women from Egypt's rich history took the stage in Hollywood. While the iconic Pharaoh's daughter Bithiah in The Ten Commandments was portrayed by Anne Baxter, it was Elizabeth Taylor who mesmerized audiences as the alluring and influential Queen Cleopatra in a different film project. This article delves into the role of Elizabeth Taylor as Cleopatra, discussing the historical context, the film's impact, and the seismic presence Elizabeth Taylor brought to the character.

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Historical Context and the Role

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Queen Cleopatra VII, ruling from 51 to 30 BCE, was a fascinating figure in Roman and Egyptian history. She was known for her political acumen, her romantic involvements (with Julius Caesar and Marc Antony), and her strategic alliances that significantly influenced the fate of the Ptolemaic dynasty and the Roman Empire. Yet, no Cleopatra graced the screens of the 1956 production of The Ten Commandments, as it focused on the biblical narrative from the reigns of Ramses I, Seti I, and Ramses II, over a thousand years before Cleopatra's time.

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Similarly, Cleopatra would not be a part of the same narrative shared by The Ten Commandments. In contrast, Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of Cleopatra came in a film that captured the essence of her character in a more modern and cinematic context. The role required an actress who could embody both the grandeur and the fallibility of Cleopatra, two sides of the same complex coin.

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Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra

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Elizabeth Taylor's portrayal of Cleopatra was not just the sum of a costume and a script; it was an embodiment of a character's life story on the silver screen. The film Cleopatra, directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, debuted in 1963, two years after Taylor won an Academy Award for her role in Butterfield 8.

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Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra was not a one-dimensional queen. She was portrayed as a political strategist, a lover, and a woman struggling with the waning power of her kingdom. Taylor's commanding presence, combined with impeccable vocal skills, brought a sense of urgency and depth to the character. Her portrayal helped establish a template for future interpretations of Cleopatra in film and literature.

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Impact on Cinema and Culture

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The film Cleopatra was a significant production both commercially and artistically. It cost $44 million to make and was initially criticized for its massive budget and cost overruns. However, it became a box office success, earning over $118 million worldwide. The film's extravagant sets and lavish costumes, which included the famous 3-D scenes, made it a standout in cinematic history. Furthermore, the film's luxurious sets and extensive use of Egyptian architecture and landscape established a benchmark for epic historical films.

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Elizabeth Taylor's Legacy

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Elizabeth Taylor's role in Cleopatra was not just a part of a cinematic journey. It was an exploration of a complex historical figure. The portrayal of Cleopatra, with all her contradictions and brilliance, set a standard for the depiction of powerful women in film. Taylor's performances, from her early days as a wholesome young actress to her commanding role as Cleopatra, showcased a range of emotions and a depth that has been celebrated in fashion and film.

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Conclusion

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The cinematic portrayal of Cleopatra by Elizabeth Taylor marked a significant milestone in film history. It bridge the gap between historical events and the compelling narrative of a legendary queen. Her performance, as always, was a testament to her theatrical prowess and understanding of historical roles.