A fine account of the making of "Cleopatra" has been compiled; and the movie has been seen and appreciated by millions worldwide. Everyone knows by now how an interesting historical dramatic project gradually grew into the most expensive and lengthy production in film history... incidentally, "Cleopatra" finally earned a profit. There are seven credited writers and four directors; but the production will always be attributed chiefly to Jospeh L. Mankiewicz. The cinematography Leon Shamroy and music by Alex Northh are also well- remembered in this film, and the costumes, sets, second-unit and stunt challenges clearly must have been immense. What is forgotten about the film is that Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor did not have to play the parts they did; and their shortcoming along with a few poorly-written lines here and there are the only negatives most persons take away from this interesting and frequently- beautiful dramatized era of Roman history. I saw this film when it premiered at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood; I did not like the vast barge used to parade Cleopatra into Rome; but it was spectacular; and the decision to stage the important battle of Pharsalia and then use none of the footage save for the aftermath deprived us of some fascinating scenes. But I appreciate this film, even more so today, especially the recreation of Alexandria and the scenes set in Rome and within the Egyptian palace. So I will confine myself here to a look here at the actors involved. The immense cast was headed by Liz Taylor, who cannot do a classical accent and Burton who was a few years from his best work, but who here was objectionable because he was on the edge of verbal bombast and because of lack of vocal variety. On the other hand, many critics praised the fine work turned in by many others, beginning with Rex Harrison as Julius Caesar, Roddy Macdowall as Octavius, Martin Landau, John Doucette, Hume Cronyn, Robert Stephens, Pamela Brown, Cesare Danova, and others in supporting roles. Thhis expensive mounting of history sinpred many later producers. The climactic sea battle is beautifully staged, the lighting, sound, sets and other elements are everywhere sumptuous and also often intelligently-used. This epic film is a fine achievement in many ways; and that it holds together as well as it does is a tribute to expert writer and director Maniewiwcz above all.
Review of Cleopatra
