My Life with Cleopatra
The Making of a Hollywood Classic
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4.8 • 6 Ratings
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- $14.99
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- $14.99
Publisher Description
Cleopatra faced countless problems during its filming and production: passionate casting disputes, broken contracts, a costly re-location from London to Rome, an emergency tracheotomy for its star, Elizabeth Taylor, scandal-ridden gossip surrounding relationships on set, and a budget of $2 million that ballooned to final costs of $44 million. Legendary producer Walter Wanger recalls the drama that occurred both on and off the set, including the incredible obstacles he had to overcome and the exhilaration of producing a cinematic triumph. A revealing story about Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton’s tempestuous romance and an insightful filmmaker’s journal, now back in print for the 50th anniversary of Cleopatra’s release, My Life with Cleopatra shares the true story of the relationship and film that enthralled the world.
“I have been told by responsible journalists that there was more world interest in Cleopatra, which I produced, and in its stars—Elizabeth Taylor, Richard Burton, and Rex Harrison—than in any event of 1962.” —Walter Wanger
Customer Reviews
More fascinating then anything in the movie!
One hears stories of major films and the craziness behind the scenes. The passions that develop between the stars. The studios fighting the artists making the films. The commerce vs the art. And so on it goes... But none measure up to this behind the scenes story. It's fascinating because you almost feel as if you are in the room with Liz! You get a sense of her personality. You get an understanding of how keeping a star happy at all costs might just be worth it! And I must say reading about the major false start in London I'm surprised Cleopatra ever got completed! One feels as if hardly a day went by with out a huge dramatic event! I work in the entertainment business and thought many of the productions I was on were out of control but nothing can compare to this. As in almost all cases the story behind the cameras is much more fascinating. Still I must confess there are things about this production of Cleopatra I will always love. The artists doing the scenery and costumes were at the top of their game. A must see movie and a must read book!
On Cleopatra
What fun, and so insightful. Really, a great easy fast read, with Loy's of great filling.