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Comparing J. Gordon Edwards And Richard Burton

Decent Essays

During the twentieth century, more than twelve directors tried their hand at interpreting one of history’s greatest love stories. Each had their own lense that they used to craft their movie into a reflection of themselves, their culture, or the time period in which is was created. J. Gordon Edwards’s 1917 film starring Theda Bara was extremely lavish and very risque. The version starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton is known for both their on and off screen romance. Cecil B. Demille’s version of the tragic story was at the height of Hollywood fashion, inspiring stars and the average woman alike. However, below the surface of Claudette Colbert’s shimmering, clinging wardrobe for the film lies another story entirely. The costumes in Cecil B. Demille’s 1934 version of Cleopatra have influences and symbols rooted in ancient Egypt, but are most heavily influenced by the art deco of the 1930s. This can be seen in many of her dresses throughout the film, especially during her dinner with Marc Antony and her surrender to Octavian and the Roman army. One example of this is in the slinky, gold lamé dress Claudette Colbert dons as Cleopatra plots to poison Marc Antony. Not only does the figure-hugging gown remind the audience of her role as the temptress, but it echos strongly of the style of 1930s Hollywood. The ruched front was style that became popular in 1930s. Several of Madeleine Vionnet’s designs feature both a ruched front and mermaid bottom, which may have served as

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