Cleopatra

A retired schoolteacher (Norma Aleandro) takes part-time jobs to support her depressed, unemployed husband. When she meets a young actress (Natalia Oreiro) aspiring to better roles than those in soap operas, they form an immediate bond and embark on a more benign version of "Thelma and Louise." For part of the trip they are joined by a sympathetic hunk, played with smoldering sexuality by Leonardo Sbarglia. Their adventures on the road both amuse and enlighten--them and us too. The film's open-ended final scene allows viewers to muse on the role of women, married and un-, in Hispanic America. Academy-Award nominated ("The Official Story") Aleandro is wonderfully ditsy in her role as an older, married woman exposed to the possibilities of FemLib. The musical score is an added pleasure. Incidentally, the film's title is misleading.

This film reunites the director, Eduardo Mignogna, and its star, Norma Aleandro. Having recently shown on cable, and not having a clue about what to expect, we took a chance in watching "Cleopatra", a confusing title because it has nothing to do with the Egyptian queen. The previous film, by Mr. Mignogna, "Autumn Sun", in which Ms. Aleandro played, is my humble opinion is a more polished work.

"Cleopatra" is also the name of the main character in the film. She has been a teacher until recently, when she was forced to retire by a reduction in force. Her husband, Roberto, also lost his job in similar circumstances. Where Cleo tries to look for other things to do, Roberto gave up on life as a depression takes hold of him.

When we first see Cleo, she's on her way home, sitting in an underground train. She falls asleep and misses her stop. To make matters worse, she must face her daily reality at home with an unresponsive husband, who, for all practical purposes, isn't there, at all. We learn that Cleo and Roberto have two grown up children, both living abroad because of the lack of employment at home. Her secret desire has been to become an actress, but she never pursued her dream.

Cleo goes to audition at a television studio, but fright gets hold of her and she freezes in front of the camera. In the ladies room she meets Sandra, a soap opera star who is kind to Cleo. Sandra ends up taking Cleo home. The next day both decide to go on the road in a voyage of adventure and self discovery that will change both women forever.

This is basically the premise of this Argentine road movie. The main interest in watching it is Norma Aleandro. This excellent actress of screen and theater, gives a nuanced performance as the middle aged woman who finally lets everything go to begin a new life. Ms. Aleandro is at times clever, sometimes confused, in her interpretation of the character. Ms. Aleandro is at her most charismatic self playing the title role.

Equally effective is Natalia Oreiro, a gorgeous new face, as far as this viewer is concerned. She plays the young woman that is at a crossroads in her young life. Evidently, she has lived an emotional roller coaster up to now and wants nothing of that life. When Carlos, played by Leonardo Sbaraglia, stops for the women, by now stranded after a minor accident, Sandra begins to realize there is more to life than what she has been able to experienced so far.

The film offers magnificent views of western Argentina. The province of Mendoza is captured by the director in all its beauty. The film sometimes feel flat, and of course, one has to make concessions in the sudden transformation of Cleo, from a meek housewife, into an adventurer who discovers a life she never knew existed.

I liked very much this story of Cleopatra, a former teacher and Sandra, a TV soap opera star who decided to escape from their tedious life and to travel through Argentina. Norma Aleandro (Cleopatra) is extraordinary in the film.The others actors and actresses ,Natalia Oreiro (Sandra) and Leonardo Sbaraglia are also very good.

Eduardo Mignogna's 'Cleopatra' may bear some resemblance to 'Thelma and Louise'. In both movies the two leads are frustrated with their current life and so they embark on a roadtrip. That's where the similarities end. 'Cleopatra' is much more toned down and restrained. It has a more poetic feel to it while 'Thelma and Louise' is more suspenseful and energetic. With photogenic cinematography of the stunning landscape and a whimsical soundtrack, the movie is pleasing to look at.

The writing is also quite down to earth and Mignogna does a fine job as director. He's storytelling is quite smoothe and he balances comedy and intensity with skill, never allowing the film to lose its whimsical edge. A beautiful Natalia Oreiro and Leonardo Sbaraglia are very good. Héctor Alterio is darkly funny as a lazy slacker husband.

'Cleopatra' mainly works because it has heart and the heart of Cleopatra is Norma Aleandro. Her sequences provide the best moments of the film, whether it's the funniest or most intense. Easily, she's a scene stealer and a joy to watch. Notice when she's talking to the camera, it really is if she's speaking to you.

'Cleopatra' is another movie that showcases Aleandro's talent. It's like a breath of fresh air in the countryside. It's a joy to watch.

"Cleopatra," directed by Eduardo Mignogna in 2003, beautifully captures the essence of human connection and the power of friendship, all set against the backdrop of Argentina's picturesque landscapes. The heart and soul of the movie lie in the exceptional performances by leading actresses Norma Aleandro and Natalia Oreiro, whose chemistry and acting abilities shine brilliantly throughout the film.

Norma Aleandro, a seasoned talent in the world of cinema, delivers a captivating and emotionally charged performance as the aging lady, Cleopatra. Her portrayal is nothing short of extraordinary, conveying a wide range of emotions with grace and precision. Aleandro's ability to draw the audience into Cleopatra's world, filled with longing and nostalgia, is a testament to her incredible talent.

Natalia Oreiro, known for her versatility as an actress, gives a stellar performance as the vivacious and charming Sandra. Her on-screen presence is magnetic, and her chemistry with Aleandro is palpable. Oreiro effortlessly captures the audience's hearts with her infectious energy and authenticity, making her character a standout in the film.

Together, Norma Aleandro and Natalia Oreiro create a cinematic masterpiece that celebrates friendship, love, and the enduring power of human connections.

"Cleopatra" is a must-see for anyone who appreciates outstanding performances and a heartwarming story that lingers long after the credits roll.