Casanova

This movie is a blast. If you're a fan of Shakespearian situational comedy (Twelfth Night, Midsummer Night's Dream, etc) then you're in for a treat. And please note that when I refer to Shakespeare, I'm talking about the original plays, not some stupid Kenneth Brannaugh romp.

The plot weaves a wonderfully tangled web of lies, misunderstandings and mistaken identities. The characters are just plain fun to watch. And director Lasse Hallström pulls off what so few people are able to do: make a comedy that doesn't offend anyone. Well, actually I think some Catholics may be offended at the uncomplimentary portrayal of the 18th century papacy, but from what I know of history, it's well deserved.

But this leads me to another point. Don't expect history, OK? A few reviewers seem to be upset by the poetic license Hallström takes. C'mon people, it's a fantasy. It's no different from the film AMADEUS which trounces all over historical fact but gives us a fantastic dramatic fiction in return. I admire creative writers who can turn history on its ear.

So yes, this isn't the erotic, decadent Casanova you may be expecting. In my opinion, that portrayal is hackneyed anyway. This is a much fresher approach. So put down your history books and enjoy the picture already.

'Casanova' is a funny Venecian comedy that has a good doze of romance, humour, drama and colour. Yes, the sets and costumes are pleasantly colourful. The art direction deserves credit. Even though the sets look theatrical, it fits with the presentation. The whimsical score adds energy. The editing is mostly good but the film does drag a little in the middle. In terms of story, there isn't anything new (which is the usual case with romantic comedies) and I would have liked to see the love blossom between Casanova and Francesca after they find out each other's identity and also how Casanova resists his 'urge' to be with other women in order to be faithful to Francesca. The dialogues are witty and amusing. Heath Ledger fits the part and effectively pulls off the title role. Sienna Miller is unrecognizable but still pretty. She may arguably be a little too young for the part but is still vivacious and her youth adds to the stubbornness of the character. Lena Olin has a graceful presence. Oliver Platt is hilarious. The romantic track between Paprizzio and Andrea is among the most endearing and funniest moments. Omid Djalili is great as the sidekick. Jeremy Irons is good too. 'Casanova' isn't pathbreaking cinema but it would make for a good date movie or a Sunday night/rainy day film. It's colorfully vibrant. It's funny. It's nice to look at.

Who cares if the plot adheres to the facts, this is a lighthearted movie not intended to be take seriously! It is a romp around the most beautiful city in the world. The wonderful music carefully selected and very well performed is just a joy, and the actors all camp it up with a wealth of nuance, subtlety and verve. It conveys all the joy of life of this city and this period when noblemen and lesser mortals dressed up and paraded the canal-sides and passages and bridges, masked to preserve identity and equality.

Almost a Moulin Rouge backdrop at times with almost circus-like pranks. Not intended to be taken seriously-get it? A romp, a party, an opera, and wonderful fun.

Upon its release,I wasn't sure about it,and my uncertainty was further heightened when it received mixed response.So,I waited until It came out on DVD charts to watch it.And frankly,I liked this period piece.

Even though it plays out more like a parody of the legend,it's not at all bad.It's rather amusing and really hilarious.With often silly but really rib tickling situations.

Casanova.Legend among the venetian city,and of course the ladies.The film chronicles the life of Casanova who knows how to get a woman laid on bed for pleasure,as he rises to fame through lies,deception,heresy,and mistaken identities.But it comes a day,when he finds his true love and it seems that a man that no women has ever rejected finally meets his match.And so he tries everything to get her.And finds true love within.

With a fresh and modern approach to the legend,it does no harm at all,and it's more fun to watch this semi-biography.It features some outlandish Production designing.Exquisitely designed sets and costumes,makes this film look rich.It's got impressive script with hilarious results.And an able directing.Hallstorm makes the film look really colorful and the setting lively.It's even got a sumptuous score.

Of course ,with its humor and execution,people will often compare this to Shakespeare in Love.Yes,it is similar in some ways,but it's a completely different experience overall.While that film was smartly funny.This film is silly fun.The silliness is allover the film.But it makes the bumbling characters all the more likable.It is a commendable film.

It is fresh,light on humor,outstandingly funny,and sometimes even sweet.Which makes you wonder why this film got a R rating? It wasn't all that grotante in its content.It played out more like a hard edged PG-13.

The film's tone and pacing is quick to admire.It's very likable.Largely due its settings and of course it's cast.One from the supporting actors really help it be more enjoyable.This offering from Disney is worth spending time on.It's fun,that's one thing for sure.

The cast superbly fills out their roles and help make Casanova so enjoyable.In particular Omid Djalili,who is just wonderfully funny.He is simply the one who offers snort out laughs without a hitch.His presence alone gives you belly laughs.As the bumbling sidekick ,he's just absolutely hysterical.

Heath Ledger as the playboy couldn't be more perfect.He is a charm to watch.And seems to be having more fun and feels more comfortable here,when compared to the dark,tragic performance he gave in Brokeback Mountain.

Sienna Miller was a complete surprise.She really catches your attention.She's gorgeous and adorable.And plays out her role with confidence.Only,she can't match the performance Gwyneth Paltrow gave in Shakespeare in Love.

Oliver Platt is hysterical.He injects fun to his scenes.And the scenes with him and Casanova with his sidekick Lupo are the highlights.Jeremy Irons and Lena Olin were fine.

Althogether,an entertaining period piece that is aided by the great actors involved and fun to be had.Sure,it's silly ,it's unfocused and flawed.But it is an modernistic version of the Legend and it plays that way just fine.It may be farcy,but it's a delightfully delicious romantic comedy romp.Just enjoy it.

I just saw Casanova. I read most of the comments here before I went to see it and honestly I was on my way to give up on it. I had fun. I laughed and enjoyed it. One thing though: this is a comedy. If you are in search or a historical, accurate description of the famous Casanova then you are on the wrong path. Some people here said Jeremy Irons was... over-acting? Come on.. give him the merit he deserves as a great actor that he is. He was enjoying his role. I could almost see him laughing on the set after the director shouts out Cut! The only dramatic moment towards the end of the movie seemed to be there just to reinforce the comedy picture after it. Sienna Miller seemed a bit uneasy to me at the beginning with the speech in the University.. I loved the costumes and the settings. It definitely makes you think of buying a ticket to Venice. (Again!) Sensual? 10% Love story? 40% Comedy? The rest. So I say, if you are in the mood for something light, give it a chance and laugh :) And let us agree to disagree, shall we?