Queen Cleopatra | Official Trailer | Netflix

Queen Cleopatra (2023), directed by Tina Gharavi and produced by Netflix, is a historical docudrama that explores the life and legacy of Cleopatra VII, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt. The series has sparked both admiration and controversy for its reimagining of the iconic queen, with a focus on her political savvy, relationships, and leadership. It challenges traditional portrayals of Cleopatra by casting a diverse cast and offering a fresh perspective on her reign.

The central narrative of Queen Cleopatra delves into Cleopatra’s rise to power in a male-dominated world. As the first female Pharaoh of Egypt in over a century, her story is one of resilience, intelligence, and a shrewd understanding of politics. The series focuses not only on her relationships with key figures such as Julius Caesar and Mark Antony but also on the intricacies of her political maneuvering and her fight to protect Egypt from the expanding power of Rome.

What sets this portrayal apart is the casting of Cleopatra as a Black woman, played by actress Adele James. This casting decision, which deviates from traditional portrayals of Cleopatra as being of Greek or European descent, has generated significant discussion and debate. While some praised the choice for its inclusivity and effort to present a more diverse and authentic representation of African heritage, others criticized it for historical inaccuracy. The filmmakers defended the casting by emphasizing the historical complexity of Cleopatra’s heritage, pointing out that her ancestry was a mix of Greek, Egyptian, and potentially African roots, which opens the door for varied interpretations of her appearance.

The series blends historical facts with fictionalized elements, employing dramatic reconstructions and interviews with scholars, historians, and cultural commentators. This format aims to both educate and entertain, providing viewers with an immersive experience that allows them to explore the historical context of Cleopatra’s reign while also engaging in a broader discussion about her legacy. The show touches on the power dynamics of ancient Egypt, the political intrigue surrounding Cleopatra’s relationships, and the historical tensions between Egypt and Rome.