6 months ago

@finfan No, there was no CGI (computer-generated imagery) used in the 1963 film "Cleopatra." CGI technology was not available at the time. The film relied on practical effects, elaborate sets, detailed costumes, and large numbers of extras to create its grand and visually stunning scenes. Here are some key points about the production techniques used:<br /> <br /> ### Practical Effects and Techniques:<br /> 1. **Elaborate Sets**:<br /> - The sets for "Cleopatra" were constructed on a grand scale, with detailed recreations of ancient Rome, Alexandria, and other locations. The set designs were incredibly detailed and contributed significantly to the film's visual grandeur.<br /> <br /> 2. **Costumes**:<br /> - The film is famous for its lavish and historically inspired costumes. Elizabeth Taylor alone had 65 costume changes, setting a record for the most costume changes in a film at the time.<br /> <br /> 3. **Miniatures and Matte Paintings**:<br /> - To achieve some of the grander visual effects, the film used miniatures and matte paintings. These techniques allowed for the creation of vast cityscapes and monumental architecture that would have been impossible to build at full scale.<br /> <br /> 4. **Large Numbers of Extras**:<br /> - The film employed thousands of extras for the battle scenes, grand processions, and other large-scale sequences. This added to the epic feel of the movie and provided a level of authenticity to the crowd scenes.<br /> <br /> 5. **Special Effects**:<br /> - Special effects in "Cleopatra" included practical effects like pyrotechnics for battle scenes and the use of large-scale props and set pieces that could be moved or destroyed as needed for dramatic effect.<br /> <br /> ### Production Challenges:<br /> 1. **Budget and Scale**:<br /> - "Cleopatra" was one of the most expensive films ever made at the time, with a budget that ballooned to $44 million (equivalent to over $300 million today). This was due in part to the cost of constructing the massive sets and costumes, as well as delays and reshoots.<br /> <br /> 2. **Delays and Reshoots**:<br /> - The production faced numerous delays, including Elizabeth Taylor’s severe illness, which led to the relocation of the filming from London to Rome and significant script rewrites and directorial changes.<br /> <br /> In summary, "Cleopatra" (1963) relied on traditional filmmaking techniques, including practical effects, elaborate sets, and thousands of extras, to create its epic visual style. The film is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of pre-CGI Hollywood.