Casanova
Plot: The serial fornicator Casanova (Heath ledger) has been told he must find a wife. He chooses virginal Victoria, but the equally virginal Giovanni has his heart set on her. Later Casanova encounters Francesca, Giovanni’s sister, and falls in love, but Francesca is already betrothed to Lard King Papprizio. This story follows the antics of Casanova to woo Francesca by any means necessary, whilst also trying to avoid being hung as a heretic by Inquisitor Pucci (Jeremy Irons).
My Thoughts: I have not seen any other version of Casanova so this story is new to me. I enjoyed the film although it did drag to begin with. The characterisations are generally very good although Heath doesn’t really come across as an Italian love god. The plot revolves mostly around stolen identities and has ‘Farce’ written all over it (as opposed to historical drama). The secondary characters make the film more enjoyable, such as the lard king Pucci and Victoria, who is practically biting the banisters to get laid! It has some nice comic moments and some good script (but Heath still has trouble delivering them with any passion), but you do mhave to wait ‘til the end for action. The ending itself is very good, if a little implausible, but well worth waiting for. All in all a good romp with some excellent characterisation from the whole cast, but it’s cheesiness probably won’t set the world alight!
Best Bits: The bit with the pig was a very short plot point but very important. And the Ball scene
Score: 7/10