Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra

I can't say I wasn't amused, but I didn't have as much fun as I did with the cartoon of the same name, which, in addition to the great bon mots (which the film partially preserved), also offers non-transferable animated humor. The film tries to build musical numbers that are fresh and nice, but not nice enough to smooth out the impression of shallowness. Otherwise, this French film maintains the decent standard of the previous film – good effects, good actors, average direction. Just enough to watch during the evening, but if I had to choose between the cartoon and acted versions, I wouldn't hesitate. (05/18/2005)

Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra usually divides the audience into two disparate groups. I'm one of those who enjoy a live-action version of Cleopatra now and then. The 1968 animated version was already absolutely excellent and there are so many wonderful ideas here. Sun-drenched Egypt is a feast for the eyes, and Monica Bellucci has never been more beautiful. The humor may not be universal, but where the original comics "Asterix and Cleopatra" (1965) worked, this will work too. (08/24/2019)

I was extremely surprised at how much I liked this film. Partly because it has genuinely funny scenes where thankfully there's no bickering in a Gallic village, which actually isn't present here at all, and partly because the film is infused with pop culture elements, beautifully reflected in the music. And then, of course, there's Monica Bellucci. (06/06/2016)

The change of director is evident from the opening sequence, but I don't think the film suffers because of it. The overall feel of the second Asterix may be wackier and crazier, but it's all the more imaginative for it. Jamel Debbouze was right on, and the graceful Monica Bellucci was more of a model for the designers than Cleopatra, as some of her costumes were truly unforgettable. The film also includes some appropriately used references to American films, or at least it felt that way at times. In short, I enjoyed this episode about as much as the previous one, hence I give it the same rating. (07/13/2011)

The red lobster is one of the largest crustaceans in existence. An adult specimen can weigh up to 17 1/2 lbs. The high score I gave here is mainly for the lobsters and (literally) a couple of good jokes. The second half is quite good because it is so deranged that... Well, you know, lobsters. But the first half is desperately boring and lame. (04/12/2004)