Review of Caesar and Cleopatra (1945) by Ashley H — 16 Nov 2010

Charming, and disgusting. A classic tale of western imperialists in a foreign land. So, a matter of might makes right, and divide and conquer/rule. Caesar teaches Cleopatra (to rule), but then, just when it appears that Cleopatra is turning the tables and starting to teach Caesar, the proceedings are abruptly brought to an end.

War may be more manly than palace/court intrigue/assassination, but it's not "better". The most disturbing act of violence by far in this film is the silent, unseen throat-slitting of Cleopatra's nurse, treated perfunctorily, made light of.