Gal Gadot, the renowned Israeli actress famous for her portrayal of Wonder Woman, is all set to play the role of Queen Cleopatra Philopator VII in a movie that will hit theatres in 2025. A newly released theatrical poster has triggered renewed debates about the film’s storyline. Gadot, on her part, is optimistic that the movie will alter the traditional narrative surrounding the iconic historical figure that Elizabeth Taylor famously played in the 1963 movie, Cleopatra. Nevertheless, some critics have raised objections about Gadot being cast as Cleopatra, citing her Israeli heritage as a point of contention.
In an interview, Gal Gadot expressed her excitement for her upcoming role as Cleopatra in the movie. She believes that Cleopatra is an iconic and powerful female leader who deserves more recognition beyond being portrayed as a seductive woman who had affairs with Julius Caesar and Marc Anthony. Despite facing criticism from some online commentators, Gadot defended her casting by stating that Cleopatra was Macedonian and they were originally looking for a Macedonian actress to play the role. Gadot aims to celebrate the legacy of Cleopatra and honor her as an amazing historic figure whom she admires. Cleopatra VII Philopator was the last ruler of the Ptolemaic kingdom and ruled over ancient Egypt from 51 to 30 BC. She was a descendant of Ptolemy I Soter, the founder of the dynasty, and was known for her diplomacy and strategy in maintaining Egypt’s independence while navigating the political landscape of the Roman Republic. Cleopatra formed alliances with prominent Roman leaders, including Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, which secured her position and Egypt’s interests. However, after the defeat of Antony and Cleopatra’s forces in the Battle of Actium, Egypt fell under Roman rule, marking the end of her reign and the demise of the Ptolemaic dynasty.