Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra in the 1963 film Cleopatra is one of the most iconic performances in cinematic history. Directed by Joseph L. Mankiewicz, this epic film not only cemented Taylor’s status as a Hollywood legend but also became famous for its lavish production and behind-the-scenes drama. From her stunning costumes to her turbulent romance with Richard Burton, who played Mark Antony, Taylor’s role as Cleopatra remains unforgettable. Let’s dive into some interesting facts about Elizabeth Taylor’s time as the Queen of Egypt, complemented by some powerful images.
1. The Record-Breaking Salary
Elizabeth Taylor made history by becoming the first actress to earn a million-dollar salary for her role in Cleopatra. In fact, her contract ensured she was paid $1 million upfront, which later ballooned to $7 million due to production delays and complications. At the time, this was an unprecedented amount, solidifying Taylor’s status as one of the highest-paid actresses in the world. Her paycheck was as grand as the film’s production, which eventually became the most expensive film ever made at that time, costing around $44 million.
2. Lavish Costumes and Jewelry
The film Cleopatra was renowned for its extravagant costumes and sets. Taylor wore a total of 65 different costumes throughout the movie, and her outfits were adorned with real gold, precious gems, and intricate details. Her wardrobe became one of the most iconic elements of the film, and one of her costumes reportedly cost $200,000—a record for the time. Her Cleopatra look, with bold eyeliner, elaborate headdresses, and luxurious gowns, defined Hollywood’s image of the Egyptian queen for decades to come.
3. The Famous Romance with Richard Burton
While Cleopatra was a cinematic spectacle, the real drama unfolded off-screen. Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s passionate love affair began during filming, despite both stars being married to other people at the time. Their tumultuous relationship grabbed international headlines and led to a decade-long romance, which included two marriages and two divorces. The Taylor-Burton love affair was almost as legendary as the movie itself, adding another layer of intrigue to Cleopatra‘s legacy.
4. A Film That Nearly Bankrupted 20th Century Fox
The production of Cleopatra was plagued with delays, reshoots, and budget overruns, nearly leading to the bankruptcy of 20th Century Fox. Originally planned as a modest film, its budget spiraled out of control, partly due to Elizabeth Taylor’s health problems, which caused multiple filming delays. The film’s elaborate sets, filmed in both Rome and Egypt, along with the grand costumes, added to the mounting costs. Despite the financial struggles, Cleopatra went on to become the highest-grossing film of 1963, though it didn’t recover its massive production costs.
5. Critical Reception and Legacy
While Cleopatra received mixed reviews upon its release, it was praised for its visual grandeur and Taylor’s performance. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Costume Design, and has since become a cult classic. Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of Cleopatra remains one of her most iconic roles, forever associating her with the glamorous and powerful Egyptian queen. Her performance helped redefine Cleopatra in popular culture, transforming her into a symbol of feminine strength, beauty, and mystique.
Conclusion
Elizabeth Taylor’s role as Cleopatra is a lasting testament to her star power and her place in Hollywood history. From her groundbreaking salary to her dazzling costumes and her infamous romance with Richard Burton, Cleopatra was a film that transcended the screen. It remains a cultural touchstone, representing both the heights of Hollywood extravagance and the enduring allure of one of history’s most fascinating women.
