40 Stunning Photos of Claudette Colbert on the Set of “Cleopatra” (1934)

Cleopatra is a 1934 American epic film directed by Cecil B. DeMille and distributed by Paramount Pictures. A retelling of the story of Cleopatra VII of Egypt, the screenplay was written by Waldemar Young and Vincent Lawrence and was based on Bartlett Cormack’s adaptation of historical material. Claudette Colbert stars as Cleopatra, Warren William as Julius Caesar, and Henry Wilcoxon as Mark Antony.

By the early 1930s, Colbert had established herself as a leading lady in Hollywood, known for her performances in films like The Smiling Lieutenant (1931) and It Happened One Night (1934), the latter of which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.

The casting of Claudette Colbert as Cleopatra in the 1934 film Cleopatra was a strategic choice that capitalized on her reputation as one of the most glamorous and versatile actresses of the era. Colbert brought sophistication, wit, and allure to the role, embodying the legendary queen with a combination of regal poise and a touch of Hollywood glamour.

Colbert’s striking looks and ability to wear elaborate costumes with ease made her an ideal choice for the lavish, art deco-inspired designs of the film, which reimagined ancient Egypt through the lens of 1930s Hollywood opulence.