Casting directors probably have one of the most important jobs in Hollywood. When it comes to getting somebody right for a role, all sorts of things have to be taken into consideration, like if they have the right look, or if they’re a cokehead who might just not turn up on set or whether or not they’re Jennifer Lawrence (so hot right now). Sometimes, casting directors take a chance and get it spot on – Heath Ledger as The Joker, anyone? Other times, they not only get it wrong. They get it really, really, weird.

Beautiful and touching portrayals of inspiring historical figures are so soppy aren’t they? We decided it’s time to commemorate some of the worst and most distasteful attempts at realising history’s icons.

Cleopatra – coming at yer