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| Movie Review: Casanova Alternate Title: Fakes, Rakes and Romps
Story: If you want a fluffy
break from the winter doldrums check out this loosely based version
of the life and loves of Casanova. Director Lasse Hallstrom
must have had a great time working on this cotton candy version of Venice
in 1753. He gives us a handsome Casanova, willing 'victims', a Catholic
Church on a mission to blot out heretics and fornicators, great costumes,
a broad supporting cast and a number of belly laughs. Is this a must see? Absolutely not. But Venice is always gorgeous and
there is nothing wrong with just sitting back, eating some popcorn and
being entertained. Acting: Heath Ledger is now on my
list of favorites. After seeing him in Brokeback Mountain and
then seeing this fluff piece, he can do no wong. Kudos to him. Sienna
Miller was fine as his true love. Lena Olin
(Hallstrom's wife is always wonderful). Oliver Platt
was hilarious as the King of Lard. Jeremy Irons looked
like he had the best time as the Church's Inquisitor and a special nod
to Omid Djalili as Casanova's servant.
Predilection: I like period pieces.
Critters: Pigs, cats and dogs.
Food: Too busy lovin' and runnin' to eat.
Theater Audience: About 12 happy ladies.
Drift Factor: I started to look at my watch after
an hour. Oh oh.
Predictability Level: Higher than high
Oscar Worthy: No
Big Screen or Rental: Rental would be fine. For some
other Lasse Hallstrom films, how about: The Shipping
News, Chocolat, The Cider House Rules, Something to Talk About and the
very terrific What's Eating Gilbert Grape
Length: about two hours.
LOBO HOWLS: 6
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