Paramount Pictures won an intense auction that came down between them, Universal, Warner Bros, Netflix, and Apple, for the production of the upcoming Cleopatrabiopic starring Wonder Woman's Gal Gadot.
The new film, written by Laeta Kalogridis, will be directed by Patty Jenkins. Jenkins and Gadot have collaborated on Wonder Woman, Wonder Woman 1984, and this upcoming biopic will be their third cinematic partnership.
Gal Gadot Confirms New Film
Gadot confirmed her involvement with the new biopic in a tweet posted on October 11th. Gadot states she has wanted to make this film for a long time and is excited to embark on this new journey and tell the great story of Cleopatra.
Who Was Cleopatra?
Born in 69 B.C., Cleopatra belonged to the Ptolemy dynasty and was one of the most powerful female pharaohs in history. Cleopatra was born in Egypt, but her family lineage traces back to Greece. Cleopatra is known for her charm, intelligence, and undeniable power as one of the most progressive queens of all time. Cleopatra's unapologetic nature inspired many women of her time and her influence is still prevalent today.
Gadot Aims To Tell Story 'Through Women's Eyes'
Gadot and the team of Cleopatra announced the film on International Day of the Girl, in tribute of telling Cleopatra's story through women's eyes. This production is very women heavy with representation in front and behind the camera. Previous portrayals of Cleopatra show the queen as more of a seductress, rather than a powerful pharaoh. Gadot and her team hope to change this perception with their new film and aim to empower women everywhere.
Backlash Against Gadot
There is some backlash in relation to Gadot, an Israeli actress, portraying the Egyptian queen. Critics are accusing Gadot of cultural appropriation and feel as though she is taking the opportunity away from Egyptian actresses. There are arguments from both sides on whether Gadot is in the right to perform a role as Cleopatra.
Neither Gadot nor Paramount Pictures have commented on the backlash as of now.
There is no release date for the film as of now.
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