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Cleopatra Jones (1973) Plot Summary & Timeline

Cleopatra Jones (1973) movie poster

Cleopatra Jones is a 1973 action and thriller film directed by Jack Starrett, running 1 hour 29 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 321 words (about 1 minute to read) and covers 12 key events in order, 3 characters, where and when it is set and 2 themes. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for Cleopatra Jones.

to read the plot summary
1 min
key events in the timeline
12
characters profiled
3
themes explained
2
Cleopatra Jones (1973) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 29m
Director
Jack Starrett
Genres
Action, Thriller, Crime
Original language
English
No spoilers

What Is Cleopatra Jones About?

The premise of Cleopatra Jones in 307 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.

In a world where glossy runway lights hide covert operations, the story glides between the sparkle of high‑fashion shows and the shadowy corridors of international intelligence. Cities pulse with neon and intrigue, each corner offering a veil for secret agendas, while the ever‑present hum of exotic locales whispers of danger just beneath the surface. The atmosphere balances sleek style with a restless, kinetic energy, inviting viewers to feel both the glamour and the grit that define a modern‑day spy thriller.

Cleopatra Jones steps onto this stage as a federal agent whose poise is matched only by her lethal skill set. With a background that lets her slip effortlessly between the catwalk and clandestine missions, she wields martial‑arts mastery and an arsenal hidden within a midnight‑black ’73 Corvette Stingray. Her determination is relentless; every glance reveals a resolve forged by personal loss and a deep‑seated commitment to protect those who cannot protect themselves. The tone of her journey is one of cool confidence edged with an unyielding moral compass.

Supporting her relentless drive is Reuben Master, the steady presence who runs a sanctuary for those caught in the crossfire of the drug trade. Their connection offers a quiet refuge amidst the chaos, grounding the narrative in themes of community, redemption, and the power of solidarity. Together they embody a partnership that blends affection with shared purpose, hinting at the personal stakes that fuel the larger conflict.

When a hardened crime boss known as Stella Stevens surfaces, the chase leads to the glittering gambling dens of Macau, a locale where opulence masks peril. Cleopatra’s pursuit promises a showdown steeped in high‑stakes tension, where the world’s flashiest façades crumble under the pressure of a determined agent’s quest for justice. The film beckons with a promise of sleek action, stylish danger, and a heroine whose resolve shines brighter than any spotlight.

Full plot

What Happens in Cleopatra Jones?

The complete story of Cleopatra Jones, from the first scene to the last, in 321 words (about 1 minute). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 1 cast member page.

Spoilers ahead

As Cleopatra “Cleo” Jones (Tamara Dobson) maneuvers through the intricate world of international espionage, her ability to juggle the roles of a breathtaking overseas model and a formidable special agent provides the ideal disguise for her covert activities. With her sleek silver and black ‘73 Corvette Stingray, loaded with an array of automatic weapons, Cleo epitomizes the modern-day James Bond heroine, exhibiting exceptional martial arts skills and wielding significant influence.

Cleo’s unwavering commitment to her community, coupled with her love for Reuben Master (character), who manages the crucial B&S House—a recovery sanctuary for drug addicts—fuels her relentless fight against the devastating effects of narcotics. When the merciless drug lord known as Mommy discovers that her valuable poppy fields in Turkey have been wiped out, she unleashes her wrath, coercing a corrupt policeman into orchestrating a raid on B&S House.

Returning to LA to exact justice on those behind the failed operation, Cleo is laser-focused on dismantling Mommy’s expansive drug empire. Demonstrating strategic finesse, she systematically outmaneuvers Mommy’s underlings at every turn, leading up to a climactic showdown that sets the two powerful women in direct opposition. Just when Cleo finds herself trapped by Mommy in a crushing car, her loyal allies from B&S House rally together, empowering them to take down Mommy’s henchmen.

The scene is primed for an electrifying confrontation as Cleo and Mommy face off atop a towering magnetic crane. In this heart-racing finale, Cleo triumphs, watching as Mommy plunges mercilessly to her end, while her friends claim a crucial victory against their foes. As Reuben and the community at B&S House rejoice in their hard-fought success, Cleo makes her exit, emboldened by an unyielding resolve to rid her neighborhood of the drug plague.

With her journey toward justice far from finished, Cleo embarks on a new path, driven by her steadfast commitment to her people and her unrelenting mission to combat the drug trade that threatens their lives.

Timeline

Cleopatra Jones Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

12 key events in the order they happen, from “Cleo's Dual Life” to “A New Path Forward”. 5 events name a place, across 3 locations.

  1. 1

    Cleo's Dual Life

    Cleo Jones, a stunning model, leads a secret life as a special agent in the world of international espionage. Her striking appearance aids her covert activities, as she navigates through perilous missions while maintaining her glamorous lifestyle.

  2. 2

    The Sleek Corvette Stingray

    Armed with her iconic silver and black '73 Corvette Stingray, Cleo sets off on her missions equipped with an array of automatic weapons. This powerful vehicle not only symbolizes her strength but also plays a critical role in her escapades.

  3. 3

    Cleo's Commitment to Community

    Cleo's passion for her community drives her close ties to Reuben Master, who oversees B&S House, a recovery center for drug addicts. Her dedication to fighting the drug epidemic shapes her resolve to take on powerful adversaries like Mommy.

  4. 4

    Mommy's Wrath Unleashed

    When the infamous drug lord, Mommy, learns that her lucrative poppy fields in Turkey have been destroyed, she seeks revenge. She manipulates a corrupt policeman into leading a vicious raid on the B&S House, endangering the vulnerable communities Cleo fights for.

    Where:B&S House

  5. 5

    Return to LA

    Cleo returns to Los Angeles fueled by fury and determination to bring justice to those responsible for the attack on B&S House. Her strategic prowess and relentless spirit forge her path as she dismantles Mommy's drug syndicate.

    Where:Los Angeles

  6. 6

    Outmaneuvering Mommy's Underlings

    Cleo utilizes her martial arts skills and cunning tactics to systematically outsmart Mommy's henchmen. Her strategic finesse allows her to strike at the heart of the drug empire, inching closer to confront her nemesis.

  7. 7

    Confrontation with Mommy

    The anticipated showdown between Cleo and Mommy escalates as they find themselves facing off in a high-stakes battle atop a massive magnetic crane. Both women embody strength and cunning, ready to fight for their missions.

    Where:Magnetic Crane

  8. 8

    Cleo's Allies Rally

    As Cleo gets trapped in a precarious situation with Mommy, her allies from B&S House spring into action. Their loyalty and courage play a pivotal role in turning the tide against Mommy's henchmen.

  9. 9

    The Heart-Pounding Finale

    In a heart-racing climax, Cleo emerges victorious as she confronts Mommy directly. The tension reaches its peak as Cleo ultimately watches Mommy plummet to her end, symbolizing the downfall of the drug empire.

    Where:Magnetic Crane

  10. 10

    Celebration at B&S House

    Following the victory against Mommy's forces, Cleo returns to B&S House where Reuben and the community celebrate their success. This triumph marks a significant win against the battle against drugs that plagued their lives.

    Where:B&S House

  11. 11

    Cleo's Unyielding Resolve

    Despite the victory, Cleo's journey towards justice is far from over. She remains committed to addressing the drug crisis, driven by her love for her community and friends at B&S House.

  12. 12

    A New Path Forward

    Emboldened by her experiences and the support of her community, Cleo embarks on a new mission. Her focus shifts towards continuing the fight against drugs and making her neighborhood a safer place for all.

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in Cleopatra Jones?

3 characters, among them Cleopatra "Cleo" Jones, Reuben Master and Mommy: who each one is and the part they play in the story. 1 of them link to the actor’s page.

  • C"

    Cleopatra "Cleo" Jones

    Played by Tamara Dobson

    Cleo is a fearless special agent with a dual life as a glamorous model. She exhibits remarkable fighting skills and strategic acumen, making her a formidable opponent against crime. Her determination to combat drug abuse in her community drives her actions throughout the film.

    • 👩‍🎤 Heroine
    • 🥋 Martial Artist
    • 🌹 Community Leader
  • RM

    Reuben Master

    Reuben manages the B&S House recovery center and serves as Cleo's love interest. He embodies compassion and dedication, providing support for those struggling with addiction. His role is crucial as he motivates Cleo to fight against the drug plague affecting their community.

    • ❤️ Love Interest
    • 🏥 Community Supporter
  • M

    Mommy

    Mommy is the merciless drug lord whose actions drive the conflict of the film. She is ruthless and determined to maintain her empire, viewing Cleo as a significant threat. Her character highlights the dangers posed by the drug trade and serves as the catalyst for Cleo's journey.

    • 👿 Villain
    • 💊 Drug Lord
Setting

Where and When Is Cleopatra Jones Set?

Cleopatra Jones is set in Los Angeles and Turkey. Here is why the place matters to the story.

When

The film presents a contemporary setting, reflecting the social issues of its time, notably the struggle against drug addiction and trafficking. It showcases the fashion and aesthetics of the 1970s, particularly through Cleo's stylish persona and her sleek sports car.

Where

Los Angeles, Turkey

Los Angeles is a vibrant city known for its entertainment industry, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks. In this film, it serves as the backdrop for Cleopatra Jones' fight against a drug empire. The lush landscapes of Turkey, noted for its poppy fields, become critical to the storyline as they represent the source of narcotics that Cleopatra seeks to dismantle.

  • 🌆 City
  • 🌍 Country
Themes

What Are the Themes of Cleopatra Jones?

2 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Empowerment and Justice.

  1. 01

    Empowerment

    The film emphasizes women's empowerment through the character of Cleopatra Jones, who defies traditional gender roles as a strong, capable heroine. Her resilience in the face of adversity highlights the importance of fighting for justice and supporting her community. Cleo's leadership and martial skills serve as an inspiration for overcoming challenges and standing up against male-dominated crime.

  2. 02

    Justice

    Justice is a central theme as Cleopatra battles the drug lord Mommy to protect her community. The film portrays her relentless quest to dismantle the drug trade and restore safety in her neighborhood. It raises awareness of the harsh realities of drug addiction and the fight against it, showcasing the triumph of good over evil.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is Cleopatra Jones?

Tense in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Tense
Pacing
Fast
Story
Straightforward
Intensity
High
Ending
Happy

A slick and empowering blaxploitation action film that delivers constant high-stakes energy, following a formidable agent as she systematically dismantles a drug empire with tense confrontations and explosive showdowns.

  • empowering
  • high-stakes
  • tense
  • slick
  • action-packed
  • methodical
  • crime investigation
  • drug trade
  • community empowerment
  • female protagonist

Content notes: drug use, violence, death.

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Where to watch

Where to Watch Cleopatra Jones

Stream it on Hoopla, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

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Read next

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FAQ

Cleopatra Jones Plot Questions

5 quick answers about Cleopatra Jones, taken from the plot summary, character guide and setting on this page and the film’s credits.

What is Cleopatra Jones about?

In a world where glossy runway lights hide covert operations, the story glides between the sparkle of high‑fashion shows and the shadowy corridors of international intelligence.

Read the full plot summary

When and where does Cleopatra Jones take place?

Cleopatra Jones is set in Los Angeles and Turkey. The film presents a contemporary setting, reflecting the social issues of its time, notably the struggle against drug addiction and trafficking.

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in Cleopatra Jones?

The story follows Cleopatra "Cleo" Jones (played by Tamara Dobson), Reuben Master and Mommy.

All the characters

What are the main themes of Cleopatra Jones?

The summary picks out 2 themes: Empowerment and Justice.

The themes explained

Who directed Cleopatra Jones?

Cleopatra Jones (1973) was directed by Jack Starrett and runs 1 hour 29 minutes.

Jack Starrett’s films

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