This is a pretty good television mini-series that tells the story of Cleopatra and her relationships with Julius Caesar and Marc Anthony. I would never have thought a television movie would keep me interested until the end, it was an unexpected treat.
The story begins with the infamous Egyptian Queen Cleopatra’s return to Alexandria, where she has every intention on claiming the throne. Cleopatra knows she needs the power of Rome to make things happen so she seduces Julius Caesar, they quickly start an affair and have a child which ultimately leads to Cesar’s assassination. The only other Roman Cleopatra could trust was Mark Antony so she turns to him. He promises her that her son will be the rightful ruler of Egypt and that the independence of her country would be protected. Unfortunately he is unable to keep his promises as Roman Troops march into Egypt and force him to battle.
I find this movie gives a fair portrayal of Cleopatra. However I must agree with what a fellow reviewer mentioned, I definitely second that Cleopatra was whiny and childish in this movie. Cleopatra was known as a very strong and confident woman, she would never be whiny and childish. Timothy Dalton’s rendition of Caesar is powerful and passionate, just the way you would expect an narcissist like Caesar to be.
Billy Zane (who plays Mark Antony) was torn between Rome and his obsession with Cleopatra, the evidence of his internal conflict is portrayed well in the movie.
The costumes and sets were very well done, and true to the period. The only scenes that were lacking were the battle scenes, sometimes they looked a little fake.
Overall the movie was great, it kept my attention because it was very entertaining.
