Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002)

Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra Poster
Original Title: Astérix & Obélix Mission Cléopâtre

The Egyptian Queen Cleopatra bets against the Roman Emperor, Julius Caesar, that her people are still great, even if the times of the Pharaohs has long passed. She vows (against all logic) to build a new palace for Caesar within three months. Since all her architects are either busy otherwise or too conservative in style, this ambivalent honor falls to Edifis. He is to build the palace and be covered in gold or, if not, his fate is to be eaten by crocodiles. Edifis calls upon an old friend to help him out: The fabulous Druid Getafix from Gaul, who brews a fantastic potion that gives supernatural strength. In order to help and protect the old Druid, Asterix and Obelix accompany him on his journey to Egypt. When Julius Caesar gets wind of the project succeeding, he has the building site attacked by his troops in order to win the bet and not lose face. But just like the local pirates, he hasn't counted on Asterix and Obelix.

Movie Overview
"Asterix & Obelix: Objective Cleopatra", directed by Alain Chabat, is a 2002 French funny film based on the comics "Asterix and Cleopatra" by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. The film is the 2nd live-action variation of the popular Asterix comic series, following the gallant Gauls Asterix (Christian Clavier) and Obelix (Gérard Depardieu) who are blessed with superhuman strength.

Plot Summary
The film's plot starts when Cleopatra (Monica Bellucci), blinded by a bet with Julius Caesar (Alain Chabat), promises to build a marvelous palace within three months. She gets the help of an architect, Numerobis (Jamel Debbouze), who, aware that his failure might lead to a fate even worse than death, decides to seek the help of his old good friend, the druid Getafix (Claude Rich) in Gaul.

Getafix, Asterix, and Obelix set off for Egypt, equipped with an unique potion that approves the drinker extraordinary strength. The trio battles Roman soldiers, crosses the Mediterranean Sea, averts a series of unsafe traps, and survives numerous assassination efforts led by Caesar and Numerobis' professional rival, Amonbofis (Gérard Darmon).

Humor and Visuals
The movie is brimming with subtle humor, puns, and advanced wordplay, stoutly protecting the essence of the initial Asterix comics it is based upon. Touches of modern-day recommendations and pop culture integrated with the historic setting provide a funny twist. The spectacular storyboard, in-depth comic book-like frames, and premium visuals render a surrealistic universe that raises the total cinematic experience.

Cast Performance
The entire ensemble cast, consisting of Christian Clavier and Gérard Depardieu, provide good performances, helping to recreate the precious characters of the comic strip efficiently on the big screen. Monica Bellucci's efficiency as Queen Cleopatra radiates elegance and firmness, appropriately depicting the queen's steady determination and independent spirit. Jamel Debbouze generates the comic relief through his representation of the unlucky Numerobis.

Conclusion
"Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra" excels both in terms of narrative and visual engagement. It effectively captures the spirit of the original comic series and functions as a delightful mix of history, dream, and dynamic comedic components. With its story teeming with culture clashes, Caesar's sly methods, and the Gaul's shrewd and audacity, the outcome is a captivating comic adventure.

Top Cast

  • Christian Clavier (small)
    Christian Clavier
    Astérix
  • Gérard Depardieu (small)
    Gérard Depardieu
    Obélix
  • Jamel Debbouze (small)
    Jamel Debbouze
    Numérobis
  • Monica Bellucci (small)
    Monica Bellucci
    Cléopâtre
  • Alain Chabat (small)
    Alain Chabat
    Jules César
  • Claude Rich (small)
    Claude Rich
    Panoramix
  • Gérard Darmon (small)
    Gérard Darmon
    Amonbofils
  • Édouard Baer (small)
    Édouard Baer
    Otis
  • Dieudonné (small)
    Dieudonné
    Caius Céplus
  • Mouss Diouf (small)
    Mouss Diouf
    Baba, pirate watch
  • Marina Foïs (small)
    Marina Foïs
    Sucettalanis