Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra is a time capsule of early 2000s European comedy. It is lavish, loud, and irreverent. The English dubbed version preserves 95% of the charm while removing the language barrier.
Whether you are a lifelong Asterix fan or a newcomer looking for a comedy that rivals Monty Python in sheer audacity, finding the Asterix and Obelix Mission Cleopatra English dubbed version is a treasure hunt worth embarking on.
Out of the four live-action Asterix films produced, Mission Cleopatra (originally Astérix & Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre) is widely considered the masterpiece. Directed by Alain Chabat, it captures the chaotic, anachronistic humor of the original comic books by Goscinny and Uderzo better than any other adaptation.
While the film is a French cultural phenomenon, the English dubbed version offers a fascinating, albeit slightly different, experience for international audiences. It transforms a very French comedy of manners into a high-energy slapstick adventure.
Mission Cleopatra is widely considered the best live-action Asterix film. The English dub, while sometimes hard to find, is a hidden gem for family movie night. It’s a joyful blend of historical parody, cartoon physics, and buddy comedy – held together by the timeless duo of Asterix and Obelix.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) – A hilarious, over-the-top adventure that works just as well in English as it does in French.
If you need to know where to stream or purchase the English dubbed version, let me know and I can help look that up.
The English dubbed version of the 2002 film Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra is a sought-after adaptation that differs from the original French release by featuring a completely different voice cast and some localized jokes. English Dub Details
The English version is notable for its voice cast, which includes veteran voice actors rather than the original French stars: Asterix: Voiced by Jamie Mortellaro. Obelix: Voiced by Joe Hernandez.
Other Cast: Includes well-known voice actors like Matthew Mercer, Cristina Vee, Patricia Summersett, and Ray Chase. Where to Find It
Locating the English dub can be challenging because many physical releases are French-language only or in the "Paper Sleeve" format which sometimes lacks the dub. However, it is accessible through:
Streaming & Digital: You can rent or buy the film on platforms like the Apple TV Store and Amazon Video, though dub availability can vary by region.
Video Hosting Sites: Unofficial full versions of the English dub have been hosted on platforms like VK Video and Dailymotion.
Trailers: Short clips and "myth" trailers for the English dub can be found on YouTube. Movie Summary
Original Title: Astérix & Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre (2002).
Plot: The Egyptian Queen Cleopatra (played by Monica Bellucci) bets Julius Caesar that her people can build a magnificent palace in just three months. To succeed, her architect, Edifis, recruits the Gauls Asterix and Obelix to use their magic potion. Director: Alain Chabat.
Trivia: At the time of its release, it was the most expensive French film ever made.
The Timeless Adventures of Asterix and Obelix: A Review of "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English Dubbed
The Asterix series, created by French comic book writer René Goscinny and artist Albert Uderzo, has been entertaining readers and audiences for decades with its unique blend of humor, history, and adventure. One of the most popular installments in the series is "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra," a film adaptation of the comic book album of the same name. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the English dubbed version of this beloved animated movie.
A Brief History of Asterix and Obelix
For those who may be unfamiliar with the Asterix series, it's essential to provide some background information. Asterix is a French comic book series that follows the adventures of a group of characters living in the Roman province of Gaul (modern-day France) during the late Iron Age. The series is known for its historical inaccuracies, witty humor, and memorable characters. The two main protagonists, Asterix and Obelix, are inseparable friends who live in the village of indomitable Gauls. Asterix is a clever and resourceful warrior, while Obelix is a menhir delivery man who became immortal after falling into a magical potion as a child.
The Story of "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra"
"Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" is a 2002 animated film that brings the popular comic book album to life. The story takes place in ancient Egypt, where Julius Caesar, impressed by the pyramids and the power of the Egyptian pharaohs, decides to build a monumental palace in the desert. However, the construction of the palace is plagued by problems, and Caesar turns to Asterix and Obelix for help. The two Gauls, accompanied by their friend, Cacofonix, travel to Egypt, where they become embroiled in a complex web of intrigue and politics.
The English Dubbed Version
The English dubbed version of "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" features an all-star voice cast, including Robert Hoskins as the voice of Asterix and Keith Wickham as the voice of Obelix. The dubbing was handled by AV Channel, a renowned company known for its high-quality translations and voice acting.
The English dubbed version stays true to the spirit of the original French version, capturing the humor, wit, and charm of the characters. The voice actors bring the characters to life, delivering memorable performances that are sure to delight both children and adults.
What Makes "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" So Special?
There are several reasons why "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" stands out as a unique and enjoyable animated film. Here are a few:
Why Watch "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English Dubbed?
If you're a fan of the Asterix series or simply looking for a fun and entertaining animated film, "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English dubbed is an excellent choice. Here are a few reasons why:
Conclusion
"Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English dubbed is a delightful animated film that brings the popular comic book album to life. With its memorable characters, stunning animation, and historical humor, it's an excellent choice for families, fans of the Asterix series, and anyone looking for a fun and entertaining movie experience. Whether you're a longtime fan of Asterix and Obelix or simply discovering the series for the first time, "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" is a must-watch film that's sure to leave you smiling.
Where to Watch "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English Dubbed
"Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English dubbed is widely available on various streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, Google Play, and iTunes. You can also purchase a DVD or Blu-ray copy of the film online or at your local video store.
Final Verdict
"Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English dubbed is a charming and entertaining animated film that's sure to delight audiences of all ages. With its memorable characters, stunning animation, and historical humor, it's an excellent addition to the Asterix series. If you're looking for a fun and family-friendly movie experience, look no further than "Asterix and Obelix's Mission Cleopatra" English dubbed.
Finding a full, high-quality English dubbed version of Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
(2002) is notoriously difficult because a standard English dub was never widely released for home media in major English-speaking markets. Most official digital platforms primarily offer the original French audio with English subtitles.
Here are the best ways to find or watch this specific "piece": Official Streaming & Digital (Subtitled)
While these versions typically feature the original French voices (Gérard Depardieu and Christian Clavier), they are the highest quality available: Prime Video : Listed in several regions; check the Prime Video details to see if it is available in your current location. asterix and obelix mission cleopatra english dubbed
: Available for purchase or rental in select international territories through the Apple TV Store The "English Dub" Situation Miramax "Abridged" Version
: A heavily edited English dub was produced by Miramax in the early 2000s, which cut significant portions of the movie and changed many jokes to fit American pop culture. This version is rare and generally disliked by fans of the original. Uncertain Dubs
: While fan-made "Myth" trailers or clips exist on platforms like , these are often incomplete or unauthorized. Physical Media : If you are looking for a dubbed disc, search for the UK or Australian DVD releases
, which sometimes included an English audio track, though availability is limited to the used market (e.g., eBay or specialized collectors). Other Asterix Films in English
If you are looking for Asterix content specifically in English, newer entries are more accessible: Asterix & Obelix: The Middle Kingdom (2023)
: This recent live-action film has a complete English dub available on Asterix & Obelix: God Save Britannia : Often available on in certain regions. The Dubbing Database physical copy of the DVD from a specific region, or are you looking for fan-translated subtitle files? Mission Cleopatra ENGLISH DUB (Myth) Trailer
The English dubbed version of Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002) is a fascinating piece of cinematic history, known as much for its Miramax-led edits as for its creative attempts to translate French absurdist humor for an American audience . The "Miramax" Cut
The most notable aspect of the English dub is that it is significantly shorter than the original French version .
Missing Footage: Approximately 15–20 minutes were cut from the film .
What was Lost: Much of the screen time for Gérard Depardieu (Obelix) was removed, and nearly all references to Cleopatra’s nose—a running gag from the original comic—were edited out . The pirate crew scenes, a staple of the series, were also heavily reduced . Creative Dubbing & Meta-Humor
Despite the cuts, the dubbing studio (Sound One Corp) introduced original meta-jokes to bridge the linguistic gap :
The "French Lips" Joke: One of the most famous additions is a line by the scribe Otis (originally Exlibris), who claims one of his life's ambitions is to "move his lips in French and have the words come out in English" .
Name Changes: To preserve the series' tradition of pun-based names, many characters were renamed for the English script : Edifis (Numerobis) Criminalis (Artifis/Amonbofis) Kittypus (Cartapus) Cellularservis (Itinéris) . English Voice Cast Highlights
The dub features a cast of seasoned voice actors who stepped in for the original French stars:
Asterix: Voiced by David Coburn (originally Christian Clavier) .
Obelix: Voiced by Dominic Fumusa (originally Gérard Depardieu) .
Cleopatra: Voiced by Diane Neal (originally Monica Bellucci) .
Julius Caesar: Voiced by T. Scott Cunningham (originally Alain Chabat) .
Caius Lucius: Voiced by Tom Kenny (the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants) . Why It's a Cult Oddity
While the original film was a massive critical and commercial hit in France—becoming the most successful French film in 36 years—the English dub remained relatively rare and difficult to find for years . It is often viewed by fans as a "lost" version that highlights the challenges of localizing the specific, rapid-fire humor of director Alain Chabat for an international market .
Review: Astérix et Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre (2002 movie)
Alas, the dubbed version is also about 15 minutes shorter than the original. I may just have to break down and learn French. dgarygrady.com
Review: Astérix et Obélix: Mission Cléopâtre (2002 movie)
Here’s a review for the English dubbed version of Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra:
Overall Verdict: A hilarious live-action comic come to life — but the English dub is a mixed bag.
The Good:
The English Dub – What to Expect:
Who is this for?
Rating:
Final say: If English dub is your only option, it’s still a fun watch. But if you can find it with subtitles in the original French (or even the well-dubbed German or Italian versions), you’ll get a much sharper, funnier experience.
Searching for an English dubbed version of the 2002 cult classic Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
can be tricky, as the original French version is more widely available. While you can find the movie on major platforms like Amazon Prime Video, they often only provide the original French audio with English subtitles. Where to Find the English Dub
The English dub is considered somewhat rare but can be found in the following places:
Streaming & Digital: The English version has been spotted on VK Video and YouTube via fan-uploaded or rare Miramax-distributed versions.
Physical Media: The 2005 DVD release by Miramax features the English dub, though it is famously about 15–20 minutes shorter than the original French cut.
Miramax Version: Miramax handled the North American distribution and created a specific dubbed edit that removed several scenes, including many featuring Gérard Depardieu and various puns that didn't translate well from French. Key Facts About the Film
Production: Directed by Alain Chabat, it was the most expensive French film ever made at the time of its release in 2002.
Plot: Asterix and Obelix travel to Egypt to help the architect Edifis build a palace for Cleopatra (played by Monica Bellucci) in just three months to win a bet against Julius Caesar.
Restoration: A 4K restored version was released in 2023, which is slightly longer and includes restored post-credit scenes, though this version is typically in French. Asterix and Obelix: Mission Cleopatra is a time
For a detailed look at the 4K restoration process and the technical work behind the modern release:
Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra: The English Dub Controversy Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
(2002), directed by Alain Chabat, is a landmark in French cinema as the second live-action adaptation of the beloved comic series. While a monumental success in its native France, its transition to English-speaking audiences—specifically through the Miramax English dub
—remains a subject of significant critical discussion due to heavy editing and localized script changes. 1. The Miramax Re-Edit and Cutting The English-dubbed version released by Miramax Films underwent substantial alterations: Duration Cuts : Approximately 21 minutes
were removed from the original 107-minute French theatrical cut. Scene Removal : Notable deletions included several scenes featuring Gérard Depardieu
as Obelix and recurring jokes, such as all references to the size of Cleopatra’s nose Visual Changes
: Some releases re-edited the aspect ratio from the original 1.66:1 to 1.78:1, occasionally cutting introductory animation sequences. 2. Localization and Script Adaptation
The English script, adapted by Susan Marque and directed by Matt Landon, aimed to make the film more accessible to American audiences through modern pop-culture references: Dubbing Wikia Character Renaming
: While some names remained consistent with the comic translations (e.g., Getafix), many minor characters were renamed after rock and roll stars like John, Paul, George, and Ringo The "Droid" Pun
: A notable addition was Edifis frequently calling Getafix a "droid" instead of a "druid," a nod to that was only subtly hinted at in the French original. Obelix’s Portrayal
: Critics noted that the English dub altered Obelix's personality, making him appear more intelligent and less "simple" than his classic comic depiction. Dubbing Wikia 3. Voice Cast Comparison
The English dub replaced the star-studded French cast with seasoned American voice actors: Dubbing Wikia Original French Actor English Dub Voice Christian Clavier Inferred as various Gérard Depardieu Inferred as various Monica Bellucci Elisa Gabrielli Julius Caesar Alain Chabat David Cowgill (inferred) Jamel Debbouze Note: The English dub featured prolific voice actors like (known for SpongeBob SquarePants) and Steve Blum Dubbing Wikia 4. Critical Reception and Legacy
The English dub is often viewed as a "lost" version compared to the subtitles: Translation vs. Localization : Many fans of the original Anthea Bell/Derek Hockridge comic translations
felt the Miramax dub lacked the "sparkling wit" of the source material. Cult Status
: Despite the dub's controversies, the original film remains a cult classic in France, recently receiving a 4K restoration
in 2023 that restored many of the scenes cut for the international release. specific scene comparisons
between the French and English versions or more details on the 2023 restoration
Roman architect Numerobis asks Asterix and Obelix to help build a palace for Queen Cleopatra in 30 BC to prove Egypt’s greatness to Emperor Caesar. The duo, alongside magician-architect Edifis and the slave-turned-heroic legionnaire, race to complete the project amid comic obstacles, rivalries, and slapstick set pieces.
Q: Is there an official English dub? A: Yes, an official English dub was produced for international DVD releases. It is not a fan-edit.
Q: Why isn't it on Disney+? A: Distribution rights for Asterix films are complex and vary by country. Disney+ owns the later films (like The Middle Kingdom), but Mission Cleopatra is often held by different distributors.
Q: Is it suitable for children? A: Absolutely. Rated PG for slapstick violence and mild innuendo. The English dub makes it very accessible for ages 6+.
Q: Does Gerard Depardieu do his own English voice? A: No. Depardieu performs in French only. A professional voice actor dubs him in English.
The film is a visual feast. The sets are vibrant and colorful, mimicking the Technicolor palette
The English-dubbed version of Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra (2002)
is unique because it was heavily adapted for American audiences by
. Unlike standard translations, this version significantly altered the original French script to include modern pop culture references and slapstick humor suited for a US market. Asterix Wiki | Fandom Key Script and Story Changes Heavy Editing : Miramax cut approximately 21 minutes
from the original film. This primarily removed scenes featuring Gérard Depardieu (Obelix) and references to Cleopatra's nose. Modern References
: The English script added numerous jokes not found in the original, such as: (the architect) repeatedly calling (the druid) a The pirate crew being named after famous rock stars like John, Paul, George, and Ringo Parodies of characters like Darth Vader and scenes mimicking Jurassic Park Characterization
: Obelix is often portrayed as significantly more intelligent in the English dub than in his usual "dim-witted" comic book persona. Dubbed Voice Cast Highlights
The English voice cast included several veteran voice actors: Christian Clavier (Asterix) and Gérard Depardieu
(Obelix) provided the physical performances, while the dub featured voices like: Matt Adler Steve Blum
(known as the voice of SpongeBob SquarePants) provided additional voices. Monica Bellucci starred as Cleopatra. Plot Overview Asterix & Obelix : Mission Cleopatra - ENGLISH DUB Teasers Asterix & Obelix : Mission Cleopatra - ENGLISH DUB Teasers TELL+ViSiON Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra
The 2002 film Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra has a rare English-dubbed version that was distributed by
in the United States and select territories. While the original film is in French, the English dub features a completely different voice cast. English Dub Details English Voice Cast David Coburn Dominic Fumusa Diane Neal Edifis (Numerobis) Yul Vazquez Julius Caesar T. Scott Cunningham Philip Proctor Dubbing Studio : Sound One Corp. / Studio E Productions. Translation Style
: The dub includes localized jokes, such as characters acknowledging their mouths are moving in French while words come out in English. Runtime Difference
: The English-dubbed version released by Miramax is approximately 15 minutes shorter than the original 107-minute French theatrical cut. Dubbing Wikia Where to Watch
The film is available on several platforms, though language options (dub vs. subtitles) may vary by region: Mission Cleopatra ENGLISH DUB (Myth) Trailer
The year is 52 B.C. The reign of Julius Caesar has cast a long shadow over the known world, a shadow that darkens the sails of the Roman Empire as they stretch across the Mediterranean. Yet, in the heart of this dominion lies Egypt, a land of ancient mysteries and crippling political indecision.
It is here that our story begins—not with a battle of swords, but a battle of wits and wills. Mission Cleopatra is widely considered the best live-action
The Queen’s Wager
Queen Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom, is a woman of fierce pride and limitless ambition. In a heated exchange within the opulent halls of her Alexandria palace, Julius Caesar, arrogant and dismissive, belittles the Egyptian people as mere subordinates to Roman grandeur. He claims that their civilization is a relic, fit only to be ruled, not to rule.
Cleopatra’s pride is wounded, but her spirit is steel. She makes a wager that will decide the fate of her nation’s honor. She bets Caesar that she can construct a palace for him—a monument of unparalleled grandeur—within the impossible timeframe of three months. Should she succeed, Caesar must publicly acknowledge the supremacy of the Egyptian people. Should she fail, Egypt falls deeper into Rome’s shadow.
To achieve the impossible, Cleopatra summons the only architect mad enough to attempt it: Numerobis. He is a man of frantic energy and questionable skill, but he possesses a vision that defies logic. However, Numerobis knows that manpower alone cannot carve eternity in ninety days. He requires a miracle.
The Arrival of the Indomitable
The miracle arrives in the form of two figures from a small,Armorican village in Gaul—a speck of land that remains the sole thorn in Caesar's side. They are Asterix and Obelix.
Asterix, the shrewd and cunning warrior, carries a gourd containing a weapon more powerful than any legion: the Magic Potion, brewed by the village druid Getafix. Beside him lumbers Obelix, a menhir delivery man of immense strength and simple heart, who fell into a cauldron of the potion as a baby and possesses permanent superhuman power.
They are not merely mercenaries; they are the embodiment of resistance. As they step onto the scorching sands of Egypt, the dynamic is set. While Obelix is distracted by the local cuisine and the sheer novelty of the Sphinx, Asterix understands the gravity of their task. They are not just building a palace; they are building a symbol of defiance against an empire that believes itself to be destiny.
The Three-Sided War
Construction begins at a frantic pace. Under the influence of Getafix’s potion, the laborers work with the speed of gods. Stones that would take a team of oxen to move are tossed like pebbles by Obelix. The structure rises, defying the timeline.
But shadows gather.
The villainy of the piece is personified in Artifis, the royal architect who stands to gain nothing from Numerobis's success. Artifis is a man of sabotage and deceit. He plots to destroy the palace, not through force of arms, but through treachery. He hires mercenaries, sabotages supply lines, and sows discord among the workers.
Simultaneously, Caesar himself grows suspicious. His spies report the frantic pace of construction. The Emperor realizes that if Cleopatra wins, it undermines the narrative of Roman invincibility. Thus, the antagonist shifts from a jealous architect to the Emperor of Rome. Caesar orders his legions to blockade the site, to starve the builders and crush the dream.
The Climax: Siege of the Sands
The climax is a convergence of chaos. Artifis’s treachery leads to a trap within the Sphinx, endangering our heroes. Yet, it is here that the story explores the theme of loyalty. The love interest, the beautiful and intelligent Geometrix, aids them, proving that intellect is a match for malice.
The true turning point, however, is the Siege of the Palace. Caesar, abandoning the pretense of a wager, orders a direct assault. The construction site becomes a battlefield. This is where the tonal shift of the story deepens.
It is no longer a comedy of errors; it is a struggle for dignity. Asterix, Getafix, and Obelix stand before the advancing Roman legions. They are not just fighting for Numerobis; they are fighting for the right of a people to define themselves.
Obelix charges, a force of nature, scattering centurions like leaves in a storm. But the Roman army is endless. Asterix provides the strategy, Obelix the brute force, but it is Getafix who turns the tide. With a creative twist, he brews a variation of the potion—this time for the stone itself, or perhaps inducing a hallucinogenic state in the enemy (depending on the version of the lore), but in this retelling, the focus is on the unity of the Egyptians.
The workers, inspired by the Gauls' refusal to yield, find a courage that no potion can provide. They stand with the builders. The Roman legions, demoralized by the sight of civilians tossing columns and the sheer absurdity of the resistance, break rank.
The Verdict of History
The palace is finished on the final day. It is a wonder of the world, gleaming white against the Egyptian sky.
Caesar stands defeated, not by military might, but by the fulfillment of a promise. In a moment of magnanimous realization—knowing that history is written by the winners, and he cannot be seen as a cheat—Caesar concedes. He acknowledges the grandeur of Egypt and the skill of its people.
Artifis is foiled, his schemes laid bare, leaving him to face the wrath of the Queen.
The Deeper Meaning
As Asterix and Obelix prepare to leave, the story settles into a quiet reflection. The English dub often carries a layer of meta-humor and modern references, but beneath the puns lies a poignant message.
The mission to Cleopatra was never really about the stones or the mortar. It was about the collision of cultures. The Gauls, who live in a village surrounded by Roman camps, found themselves in Egypt, a land surrounded by Roman ambition.
Through their journey, they proved that "civilization" is not the exclusive property of the powerful. It is forged by the stubbornness of the human spirit, the loyalty of friends, and the courage to attempt the impossible. Cleopatra saved her pride, Numerobis his reputation, and the Gauls returned home, leaving behind a palace that would stand as a testament to the fact that no empire, however vast, can crush the will of those who refuse to give up.
Obelix, of course, simply asks for one last camel to take home, reminding us that even in the grandest of stories, the simplest desires remain the most human.
The 2002 film Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra does have an official English dubbed version, though it is famously different from the original French theatrical cut. Distributed by Miramax in North America, this version was significantly re-edited and localized for English-speaking audiences. Differences in the English Dub
Watching the English version provides a notably different experience than the original:
Heavy Edits: Approximately 20 to 21 minutes were cut from the English dubbed version. This included many scenes featuring Gérard Depardieu as Obelix and almost all references to Cleopatra’s famous nose.
Localization: The script was rewritten to include modern pop culture references specifically for American audiences.
Character Names: While some original names were kept, others were changed to new puns or pulled from earlier American translations of the comic albums. English Voice Cast
The dub features a professional voice cast rather than the original actors: Asterix: David Coburn Obelix: Dominic Fumusa Cleopatra: Diane Neal Edifis (Numérobis): Yul Vazquez Julius Caesar: T. Scott Cunningham Getafix (Panoramix): Philip Proctor Criminalis (Amonbofis): Tom Wyner Otis: David Cowgill Where to Watch
Finding the specific English dub can be tricky, as many digital platforms primarily host the original French version with English subtitles.
Apple TV: Offers the film for rent or purchase; some regions list both French and English audio options.
Amazon Prime Video: The movie is available for streaming and purchase, but users often report it being the original French audio with subtitles.
DVD: The physical Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra DVD is often the most reliable way to ensure you have the English dub.
Kanopy: Some libraries offer the film for free via Kanopy, though audio availability varies by institution.
You can get a sense of the English dub's tone and translation style in this official teaser: