Israeli actress Gal Gadot, known for her iconic role as Wonder Woman, may soon headline the long-awaited Cleopatra, which is currently being developed with Universal Pictures and Atlas Entertainment in Ouarzazate, central Morocco, according to CBR.
According to reports, Cleopatra will tell the story of the Egyptian queen, focusing on her rise to power in Ptolemaic Egypt. Cleopatra, the daughter of Ptolemy, fought for her throne in a bitter sibling rivalry, ultimately winning by forging a personal alliance with Julius Caesar.
Her complicated relationships with Caesar and former Roman Consul, Marc Antony, not only defined her legacy but also led to her tragic downfall.
The film, originally announced in 2020 with Gadot set to star and produce, has faced several delays. Patty Jenkins, initially attached as director, stepped down due to scheduling conflicts in 2021.
Kari Skogland, acclaimed for her work on “The Falcon”and the “Winter Soldier,” took over as director. The project moved from Paramount Pictures to Universal Pictures in 2022, with the extended development period reportedly aimed at ensuring a thoughtful and respectful portrayal of Cleopatra.
Gal Gadot has had a busy slate of projects since her breakout as Wonder Woman. She starred in the Netflix action-comedy “Red Notice” alongside Dwayne Johnson and Ryan Reynolds, appeared as Linnet Ridgeway in “Death on the Nile,” and made surprise appearances in “Fast X and Shazam! Fury of the Gods.”
In 2023, Gadot also headlined Netflix’s “Heart of Stone” and is set to play the evil queen in Disney’s live-action “Snow White,” slated for release on March 21, 2025.
Morocco, the chosen filming destination for Cleopatra, has been a magnet for major productions due to its breathtaking landscapes and rich historical ambiance. The country has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films, including “Lawrence of Arabia,” “The Mummy,” and “Gladiator” among others Morocco has also hosted hit TV series like “Game of Thrones” and “Homeland,” solidifying its reputation as a top choice for filmmakers worldwide. Recently, “Gladiator II” utilized Morocco’s unique scenery for its opening scenes set in “Africa Nova,” filmed near Ouarzazate, south of the High Atlas Mountains.