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Top 5 Movies About Ancient Egypt
1. CLEOPATRA
When someone mentions Egypt, Cleopatra usually comes to mind. This 1963 movie captures all of the struggles of the young Queen of Egypt as written in the book “The Life and Times of Cleopatra” by C.M Franzero. This epic film released on June 12, 1963 starred the one and only Elizabeth Taylor along with Richard Burton as Mark Antony and Rex Harrison as Julius Caesar. Cleopatra is known as the last active pharaoh of Ancient Egypt; she ruled from 51 BC until 30 BC. Her struggles and conquers have made her a famous figure in Western Culture, inspiring movies, plays, and books. She is portrayed as an elegant woman, visible in all of her costumes and accessories sold today.
2. ABBOTT AND COSTELLO MEET THE MUMMY
Who said movies about Ancient Egypt had to be serious and dramatic? Leave it up to Abbott and Costello to add the humor needed to make this movie a hit. Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy was released on June 23rd, 1955 as the 28th and final film they would have produced by Universal Pictures. Bud and Lou are lost in Cairo, Egypt. Throughout the movie they are being followed by an Egyptian cult for a medallion they found that was linked to a mummy. Mummies are also a huge part of what we associate with Egypt. For some time now, mummies have inspired many scary, funny, and even dramatic films. Like Cleopatra, mummies also have their own variety of costumes to choose from ranging from the realistic classic ones to the eerie ones.
3. THE MUMMY
Continuing with the trend, we have “The Mummy”. Unlike the Abbott and Costello film, this movie is not aiming to make you laugh. On the contrary, its original goal was to scare audiences, however, as production began, the movie was turned into a blockbuster adventure story. The film was released on May 7th, 1999 starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz. The movie takes place in the ancient city of Hamunaptra where an American in an archaeological dig accidentally awakens a mummy. In movies, mummies are often portrayed as scary which is why many costume makers aim to do the same.
4. THE PRINCE OF EGYPT
The Prince of Egypt is a family friendly movie which entertains and educates at the same time. This animated musical was released on December 16th, 1998. Some of the voice actors include: Val Kilmer, Sandra Bullock, Patrick Stewart, Steve Martin and many more. The movie is based on “The Book of Exodus”. The story focuses on an Egyptian prince fulfilling his destiny as the deliverer of his people out of Egypt. This among many other Egyptian prince movies have inspired and defined the true look of a king during that time.
5. LAND OF THE PHARAOHS
Land of the Pharaohs is a legendary film which starred British actors Jack Hawkins and Joan Collins. In the U.S it was released on June 24th, 1955 and about a year later in the UK. The film focuses on the design of an indestructible tomb for Pharaoh Kufu. Produced and directed by Howard Hawks, this movie was shot in Egypt giving it a more authentic touch. Nowadays ancient Egypt has been revived by the many pharaoh fans who want to look and be just like them. Luckily for them, there are numerous looks to help the process.