Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra

Astérix and Obélix head to Egypt to help Cleopatra settle a boastful wager. She claims that her people can raise a palace for Julius Caesar in just three months, and the Gauls agree to lend their notorious resourcefulness to the project. Along the Nile, they clash with rival courtiers, slick schemers, and the relentless Caesar himself, while their friend Panoramix and the quick-witted Numérobis offer guidance and misdirection. The adventure mixes gallows humor, pratfalls, and dazzling set pieces as the village duo uses brains and brawn to keep the timetable on track. No twists spoiled here, just brisk, family-friendly mayhem and bright color. Clever disguises, camel rides, and a few miscommunications keep the pace lively. The crowd cheers the chaos.

Directed by Alain Chabat, this 2002 live action adaptation draws on the long running Goscinny and Uderzo comic, mixing slapstick humor with lavish period visuals and a star powered French cast. The film leans into fast gags and vivid costumes.

Its box office stood tall among European live action hits of the era, reflecting broad audience appeal and strong word of mouth. The film earned about 131 million dollars worldwide against a budget of 58.5 million, signaling solid profitability worldwide.

Mission Cleopatra helped widen Astérix appeal beyond the comic page, turning Gallic bravado and fast paced humor into a European family favorite. The large scale Egyptian set pieces, pratfalls, and Jamel Debbouze's Numérobis gave audiences memorable scenes that helped keep the franchise in the public eye between installments everywhere.

Critics praised its brisk pace, witty banter, and lively performances, especially Depardieu as Obélix and Debbouze as Numérobis. The film toys with cultural exchange and clever problem solving over brute force, underscoring teamwork as the route to big goals. It also lightly satirizes power while valuing friendship for fans everywhere.