The trailer for Netflix’s Queen Cleopatra, an epic story narrated by Jada Pinkett Smith and written by Peres Owino and NneNne Iwuji, has been released. The streaming service released the trailer for the first time to viewers on Wednesday, and the full film will be released on May 10.
The trailer’s opening moments immerse viewers in the epic world of ancient Egypt, with a voiceover of Smith’s voice as the camera pans across stunning images of ancient Egypt and the Great Sphinx of Giza. The trailer shows Cleopatra in all her regal splendor, accompanied by her army and advisors. But this isn’t just a story about a powerful queen.
The trailer alluded to Cleopatra’s many challenges and obstacles during her reign, including battles, political intrigue, and personal struggles. The trailer depicts Queen Cleopatra fighting to keep her power, protect her people, and deal with the weight of her legacy.
“We don’t often get to see or hear stories about Black queens, and that was really important for me, as well as for my daughter, and just for my community to be able to know those stories because there are tons of them,” Smith said of the story. “Cleopatra is a queen who many know about, but not in her truth. She’s been displayed as overtly sexual, excessive, and corrupt, yet she was a strategist, an intellect, a commanding force of nature, who fought to protect her kingdom… and her heritage is highly debated. This season will dive deeper into her history and re-assesses this fascinating part of her story.”
The trailer comes to life with vibrant makeup and costumes, intricate sets, and captivating cinematography, but it’s Cleopatra’s complex and compelling character that is most fascinating to watch.
Jada Smith executive produces Queen Cleopatra, which is part of the African Queens docuseries. The trailer includes film excerpts that touch on key themes from the series, such as Cleopatra’s influence and daring intellect. Cleopatra’s African heritage has long been debated in academic circles, and the commentary in the film’s trailer also touches on the subject.
