Cleopatra (1934)

 Cecil B. DeMille's "Cleopatra"

When Cecil B. DeMille was making "Cleopatra" in 1934, the Motion Picture Production Code implemented far more rigid constrictions on film content. The 'pre-code' films before July 1, 1934 contained far more explicit material, either visually or thematically. The new code was implemented right in the middle of DeMille's filming of "Cleopatra." Because of the new restrictions, DeMille had to limit the sensational imagery he was typically known for. "Cleopatra" would have probably looked far more like "The Sign of the Cross" from two years earlier, with sexual implications, violence, and even partial nudity. Perhaps this was DeMille's grand vision for "Cleopatra," as the film's themes deal with power and the very nature of indulgence in itself. The story would have lent itself to falling into the traps of indulgence that power brings and thereby would have enticed the viewer with the imagery along with the other characters. Perhaps we would have gotten a far more realized version of the original film's vision. Despite this, DeMille was able to bypass some of the code restrictions and continue to be a little playful. Even so, the film was a major success and earned DeMille his first Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. 

The film starts Claudette Colbert as the titular Cleopatra. Cleopatra begins an infatuation with the neighboring ruler of Rome, Julius Caesar. They intend to marry so that Caesar may become a king, as well as gain access to the East and India. Upon hearing this intent, the Roman elite assassinate Caesar to prevent him from reaching his intended goals. Marc Anthony goes to Egypt to console Cleopatra and reconcile their political ties. Cleopatra uses the splendors of power and riches to indulge Marc Anthony into a sexual relationship. Hearing this, Rome revolts against Anthony and gives him an ultimatum: Rome or Cleopatra. He chooses Cleopatra. Because she is now in love with Anthony, Cleopatra gives herself up to the Roman forces to save his life. Believing that she abandoned him, Anthony stabs himself. When Cleopatra patches up the political relationship between the two ruling lands, she returns to find Anthony dead. She then uses a venomous snake to kill herself.

Perhaps the best known attribute of the film are the set designs and the cinematography of those said images. DeMille is truly able to capture the splendor of Cleopatra and Rome's majesty and riches. The elaborate sets, lavish costumes, and visual aesthetics can all add to the pedigree of DeMille's work. The term "DeMillian" would come to be known as catering each of these trademarks. The film was so visually spectacular that audiences flocked to see it. It became the highest grossing film of 1934 and was even nominated for five academy awards, winning "Best Cinematography."