Beyond ‘Erotic Vagrancy’: TCM Reframes Legacy of ‘Cleopatra,’ Elizabeth Taylor, and the Director Who Went Down with the Sphinx

The latest season of TCM’s insightful podcast, “The Plot Thickens,” promises to unravel the true narrative behind one of Hollywood’s most infamous and enduring epics, ‘Cleopatra.’ Moving beyond the sensationalized headlines that once defined its production as ‘Erotic Vagrancy,’ this highly anticipated season, previewed exclusively by IndieWire, seeks to reframe the film’s complex legacy by spotlighting the pivotal contributions of its legendary star, Elizabeth Taylor, and its visionary director, Joseph L. Mankiewicz. This re-examination aims to foster a deeper understanding of the artistic and logistical challenges that shaped this monumental piece of film production.

For decades, the 1963 blockbuster ‘Cleopatra’ was largely overshadowed by its off-screen drama: its exorbitant budget, the scandalous affair between its leads, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and the relentless media scrutiny. “The Plot Thickens” bravely confronts this narrative, aiming to peel back layers of tabloid-driven misinformation to reveal the genuine artistic endeavors and the profound human cost involved in bringing the historical saga to the silver screen. By revisiting primary sources and expert analysis, the podcast challenges audiences to look beyond the sensationalism that has long eclipsed the film’s significant place in Hollywood history.

The production of ‘Cleopatra’ was notoriously tumultuous, marked by unprecedented budget overruns that nearly bankrupted 20th Century Fox. What began as a modest historical drama spiraled into the most expensive film ever made at the time, a testament to the sheer ambition and logistical nightmares inherent in such a grand-scale Hollywood epic. The podcast delves into these intricate challenges, exploring how the pressures of an ever-inflating budget and constant external interference impacted every aspect of the film’s creation, from scripting to set design and the demanding film production schedule.

Central to this re-examination is the figure of Joseph L. Mankiewicz, the acclaimed director who famously went down with the Sphinx, navigating immense pressure and creative compromises. Mankiewicz, a two-time Oscar winner known for his sharp wit and meticulous screenplays, inherited a production already in chaos. His artistic vision for ‘Cleopatra’ was often at odds with studio demands and the burgeoning public fascination with his stars. “The Plot Thickens” sheds light on his unwavering dedication to the historical narrative and his struggle to maintain directorial control amidst a swirling vortex of financial woes and tabloid frenzy, ultimately impacting his illustrious career.

Equally crucial to the film’s legacy is Elizabeth Taylor’s portrayal of the titular Egyptian queen. Her commanding presence, both on and off screen, solidified her status as one of Hollywood’s most formidable stars. The podcast explores how Taylor not only embodied Cleopatra with a compelling blend of power and vulnerability but also navigated the intense personal and professional pressures that came with being the highest-paid actress of her time. Her performance, often overshadowed by personal controversies, is revisited through a lens that acknowledges its significant contribution to cinematic history and her enduring appeal.

Through in-depth storytelling, “The Plot Thickens” aims to foster a deeper appreciation for ‘Cleopatra’ beyond its scandalous reputation. The series meticulously unravels the challenges faced during the movie’s creation, providing context to the infamous budget overruns and the intense media scrutiny. By shedding new light on Mankiewicz’s artistic vision and the pressures he endured, as well as Elizabeth Taylor’s commanding presence, the podcast encourages audiences to see ‘Cleopatra’ not merely as a cautionary tale of excess, but as a complex and culturally significant landmark in the annals of Hollywood history.