Amazon.com

Although it was unfortunately ignored during its brief theatrical release, this sumptuously seductive production is that rarest of cinematic breeds, the (barely) respectable guilty pleasure. Combining historical fact with hysterical anachronisms of language and mannerism, it's been tailored for maximum contemporary appeal but maintains a lush, romantic feel for its factual 16th-century tale of Venetian love, lust, and political repression. Catherine McCormack (Mel Gibson's ill-fated bride in Braveheart) delivers a star-making performance as the "dangerous beauty" who becomes a skillful courtesan to pursue her forbidden love for a dashing Venetian senator (Rufus Sewell). It's all rather silly in a high-toned fashion, and the film turns dour when the church intervenes with a Scarlet Letter-like papal inquest. But the movie's joyously ribald vitality is utterly irresistible, and the casting of McCormack with Jaqueline Bisset (as her mother and courtesan mentor) is a stroke of pure genius. Merchant-Ivory would've made a smarter film from this material, but it probably wouldn't be nearly as entertaining. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (153)

Romantic, sumptious, decadent...
I caught this movie late one night when there was nothing else to watch. I was totally captivated and smitten by Catherine McCormack's portrayal of Veronica Franco a real life Courtesan of the 16th century. It was an exquisite film from beginning to end. Jacqueline Biset was superb as Veronica's mother who taught her daughter the powerful arts of her sex and set her upon a path that would eventually lead her into the arms of Senators, Kings and Priests. The understated Rufus Sewell was excellent as the love of her life who at first abandons her when she has to bed the King of France for the sake of her country, but who finally rallies to her side when a jealous young priest accuses her of witchcraft. There are many memorable moments in this film, one being Veronica trying to dissuade her friend from having her daughter become a Courtesan. It is poignant and heartfelt as two women look at the lives they live and wish they were the other. Add to this the scene where Veronica confesses not to being witch before the Catholic Inquisition but just a woman whose choice of profession has been dictated to her by the narrow constraints of Venetian society. This is a film for those who want to be stimulated both sensually and intellectually. It's a shame that it didn't reach a wider audience when it first came out in 1998. Absolutely stunning is my final thought on this ad-fab film.

A Beautiful Movie!
I rented this one on a whim, and I'm glad that I did. This film is based on the true story of Veronica Franco, a Venetian courtesan who was first admired and then later put on trial for her ability to draw men to her. Her one true love is the dashing Marco (a very excellent Rufus Sewell) whom she could not marry because she was not rich enough. Her mother instead shows her another way to be with the man she loves, and Veronica's journey begins. This film is shot very well;you get the feel of the time and mindset of the people during this period drama. You also understand the limitations placed on women during this time period, and how sexuality was the only option open if a woman wanted to be educated. As Veronica, Catherine McCormack is a great actress, a woman who learns to use both her body and mind to have her way. She expresses great strength and dignity, even when she is accused of being a witch and brought to trial. I love the chemistry between Marco and Veronica;it's sexy without being sleazy. I watched this film several times before returning it to the video store, and I can honestly say that it is one of the most interesting films I have had the pleasure of viewing. See it at least once and judge for yourself.

The Beauty of it all.
Hesitant I am to review this after perusing the many reviews it has already recieved. Many glowing, and several in disdain.

I will agree though with the glowing reviews for the movie is splendid in tugging at the heartstrings and most magnificent with its display of Venice, the city.

If one does research before seeing this movie then I suggest they not bother watching the film and perhaps study a textbook instead. Movies are for enjoying visually and possibly emotionally. They aren't history lessons. I knew only little going into this movie many years ago when I first saw it, I knew it was based on a true story. I didn't care how accurate that story was with the facts, I wanted to see if it could accomplish the feat of entertaining me and not prompting me to walk out of the theatre. Not even close did it come to injecting those latter feelings. I was awestruck. Why?

Beauty. Plain and simple. In the portrayals of the characters by the more then capable actors, to the way that Veronica jousted with the men with her words-something that very few women back in that day were able to do, and quite many never even entertained the thought of doing. To the emotion that flowed effortlessly. For the reason that it tangles you up into a world that you were never a part of and may never be a part of.

So as soon as I could I purchased the DVD, and these are some of my comments below as to why I love it so-

The Actress:
The actress playing Veronica,Catherine McCormick was a delight to watch, not only for her intelligence, but also for the quiet heartbreak that she was displaying. What this film did is portray how one suffers but continues on in silence, trying to show a different face to the rest of the world. Women of early Europe did not have much of a choice when it came to survival, and knowledge was near forbidden. That would make them equal to men and that was punishable for a price. Veronica had a choice, as she was neither poor(though close to it) and she was neither rich...she could marry,if there was someone to marry her as her family no longer had a dowry to provide, so she could marry someone in her class who may not be able to provide for her- or she could become a Courtesan, where at least her intelligence and hunger to learn was allowed to be fed.

The Actor:
I fell in love with Rufus Sewell after watching this movie. He may not be what would be considered a "hunk"(ohh how I hate this word) but he resembles what men back then just may have looked like and how they carried themselves. His character is stoic, quite often burning with rage and love and instead of being able to display the emotions, he goes forth in wonder questioning his position without giving too much away as to why. And when he does get to love Veronica, it's fiercely. He understands why she does what she does, he lets her continue on her path, when most men would have tried to own her. For on this path of hers, he knows they will meet up time to time.

The Controversy???

The movie is a love story, yes. I question those who refer to it as soft porn and are disturbed by the sexuality and the nudity within the film. Surely upon seeing what this film is about they would not be surprised at seeing such. Nudity is nothing to be ashamed of, as neither is what men and women do with another. I see nothing about the movie that would make it soft porn. I see something called "art". I do suggest however, that these same people should avoid French Films at all costs.

I could go on with what it was I loved about the film. There is one part of this film that stands out and grabs attention though, and that is:

The Artistic Design. The Photography. The Lighting. The Costumes. The movie itself, plot and actors aside, was a cinematic wonder. The background set the tone for the rest of the movie, and one would have to have a steel heart not to love and appreciate it.

Oh, and as an aside: I have introduced this film to several men-from my brother, to my father, a friend, and now my husband. Every single one of them love it. This is not a chick flick. It's the romance. Every one of them found it romantic.

Breathtaking History
This movie touches a special place in my heart. As a history and art history lover, the richness of the story and the beauty of the film keep me watching it over and over.

A true story (see The Honest Courtesean) that takes place in Venice in its most gorgeous era, the film brings the viewer into a world forgotten by many. The art direction and the use of the real palaces in Venice complete the total package.

Catherine McCormack is not only beautiful, but a heartfelt actress as well. You may remember her as William Wallace's wife in Braveheart (brunette there).

On a final note, if you are headed to Venice, catch this movie for a quick introduction of the Golden Age of this city and an inside look at those who used to roam the halls of the gorgeous palaces you will see lining the Grand Cannal.

One of my favorites.

Promise not fullfilled
Simply put, this film fails to deliver on a multitude of levels. The very least I expected this movie to provide was some eye candy such as, lush scenery, resplendent costumes, exceptional film quality, and a bunch of really good looking people.

The first thing that struck me is that Catherine McCormack and Rufus Sewell were too old for their respective roles. It's not quite as bad as the days when a 50ish Jimmy Stewart was playing characters in their twenties, but it was still a bit embarrassing. McCormack spent the first half hour of the film quite literally jumping up and down, overwhelmed with girlish enthusiasm. These breathless expressions of glee got old real fast. When she was playing this role she was 26 pretending to be 16. Likewise Sewell was 31 trying to convince us that he was a young rascal looking for a good time.

The dialogue was at best, uneven. At times there seemed to be an attempt to utilize language is such a way as to suggest 16th century Italy, but for the most part the phraseology was distinctly 20th century. The long distant views of Venice were unconvincing and cheaply produced. Given the available technology, this was simply inexcusable and reflected the overall laziness that permeates the movie. Even the costumes looked as if they were retreads from other films.

At the very least I expected to see beautifully lit scenes, reflecting the glorious paintings of that era and magnificent beauty of Venice. Instead, the best that could be said about the cinema photography was that it was undistinguished.

(...) ... Read more

Amazon.com

It's not hard to see what attracted director Marshall Herskovitz (TV's thirtysomething) and writer Steve Zaillian (Schindler'sList) to this tragicomic story of a widower trying to keep life together for his two young sons. And Danny DeVito gives them a surprisingly sympathetic and low-key performance that capably blends pathos and humor. But the story--about Jack's attempts to get his drinking under control, even while holding down a job as a late-night TV horror-movie host--descends into bathos. Then it gets downright weird and scary when the family's strange neo-Nazi neighbor (a popeyed Gary Sinise) takes an unhealthy interest in one of the children. Jack the Bear sat on the shelffor a couple of years while Herskovitz reworked it, but it was like changing the tires on a car with a broken drive-train. --Marshall Fine ... Read more

Reviews (12)

See it for the first time all over again.
I was eleven when I first saw Jack the Bear, and at the time I didn't think too much of it and I would have rather been watching some action movie. It is only now that I realize how good this movie really is. Danny De Vito plays widow John Leary, a late night TV show horror clown whose wife was killed in a car accident. Robert J. Steinmiller Jr. plays Jack Leary and a young Miko Hughes plays Jack's brother Dylan. The movie tells the story of this family and how they cope with the loss of John's wife, Jack's newfound interest in girls (especially young Reese Witherspoon), and the man of corruption who lives next door (played by a very frightening Gary Sinise). The movie is funny, dramatic, heartwarming, and is one of the most realistic portrayals of a family's love for one another. Danny De Vito's performance is phenomenal, adding just enough humor to his dramatic roll. Robert Steinmiller is exellent and Miko Hughes shows just how talanted he is, even at the very early age of seven. This movie is one not to be missed by anyone who has ever known the importance of family.

Brings back a great era in time
Where is the DVD ??? As a kid growning up in the 70's the music brings me right back to where I was at that time in my life. Mr. De Vito, get with who ever you need to get with and pump out this DVD real soon. The movie makes you laugh, cry, frightens you and makes you just love family. All the performances in this movie are awesome and would love to see where some of those actors are now these days .... I'd be the first in line to get this movie ....

I love this movie!
i remember watching this movie years ago and it mad me teary an it still makes me teary eyed in scenes! its about danny devito playing a horror host of a tv show raising his two young sons the best way he knows how. the scenes that got to me was where danny devito missed taking his son to school so his older brother took him. when danny goes a few hours later to check on him the look on the kids face just breaks your heart! this movie is so powerful. i had never heard of it and a friend recommended it. i am so glad because this movie is excellant!

The Best film you've never heard of
This film had a gigantic impact on my life. It introduced me to the dark side of human nature. It showed me that "Monsters are Real". It got me started writnig dark fiction, at that time mostly bad copies of the events in this film, but I was very young, and very sheltered. I contemplated watching this film again before I reviewed it, but I don't want to. I'm afraid that if I watch it again I won't like it as much as I did then. You shoulld see my copy, I bought it new and now it looks like a rental. Where is the DVD? I can remember watching it only to rewind it and watch all over again. I can't tell you exactly what it is that resonated so strongly with me. The performances are great, I don't know if Danny Devito did a serious role ever again. It'a worth watching just for that. Not to mention Gary Sinise's un-nerving performance. After watching this film I became obsessed with everything in it: the A's, the soundtrack, finding the book. I found it years and years later, the book is almost as beat up as the VHS. I saw the film "Unstrung Heroes" not to long after I saw this film, besides having Julia Louise Dreyfuss (?) in common, it also has the same meloncholy appeal. Maybe that's just it, not only did "Jack the Bear" teach me about the existence of monsters, it may also have taught me about what makes real drama. Whatever the reason, the fact remains that it stirs my soul, and isn't that what all good films do?

Very Underated, Hard to find, Yet so good
I thought this movie was one of the best works of cinema I've ever seen. Danny Devito shines in his serious yet humerous role. Gary Senise is the creepy kidnapping bad guy and Resse Wittherspoon is so adorable as Karen, Jack's love interest. I felt so bad for Dylan when Jack put him down by the dogs, I was blown away by this toddlers performance. The plot was good lots of twists and turns, yet totally beliavable. This movie took ever thing you look for in a movie and put in one convient package. ... Read more

Amazon.com

A show so popular with its core audience that it runs in syndication even though only 19 episodes were made, My So-Called Life was the world's first introduction to actress Claire Danes (Romeo & Juliet, Home for the Holidays, The Mod Squad), who played the lead character Angela. In "Dancing in the Dark," Angela daydreams during science class, recalling the few times she's been kissed. She's been thinking about Jordan Catalano, a handsome boy who seems out of her reach. Her spunky and out-of-control friend Rayanne decides to throw the two together by getting Jordan to drop by Brian Krakow's house, where Angela and Brian (who has a crush on Angela) are doing a science project for extra credit. Meanwhile, Angela's parents try to rekindle their marriage-worn affections by taking up ballroom dancing. While both Angela and her parents muddle through their experiments with romance, viewers are treated to a well-written, shot and edited show, which set the pace for all hour-long teen oriented programs to come.

"Guns and Gossip" continues with the parallel story structure of "Dancing in the Dark." Brian Krakow witnesses a gunshot in the hallway at school. As word passes, Brian becomes more and more of a legendary figure. While he is pressured by school officials and uptight parents to identify the person involved, Angela has to contend with rumors that she slept with Jordan Catalano. Boys start looking at her differently, and she finds herself at delicate odds with Jordan. Less about romance and more about teenage issues, "Guns and Gossip" is a sophisticated intertwining between the power of rumors and the truth of actual events. --Shannon Gee ... Read more

Reviews (153)

Romantic, sumptious, decadent...
I caught this movie late one night when there was nothing else to watch. I was totally captivated and smitten by Catherine McCormack's portrayal of Veronica Franco a real life Courtesan of the 16th century. It was an exquisite film from beginning to end. Jacqueline Biset was superb as Veronica's mother who taught her daughter the powerful arts of her sex and set her upon a path that would eventually lead her into the arms of Senators, Kings and Priests. The understated Rufus Sewell was excellent as the love of her life who at first abandons her when she has to bed the King of France for the sake of her country, but who finally rallies to her side when a jealous young priest accuses her of witchcraft. There are many memorable moments in this film, one being Veronica trying to dissuade her friend from having her daughter become a Courtesan. It is poignant and heartfelt as two women look at the lives they live and wish they were the other. Add to this the scene where Veronica confesses not to being witch before the Catholic Inquisition but just a woman whose choice of profession has been dictated to her by the narrow constraints of Venetian society. This is a film for those who want to be stimulated both sensually and intellectually. It's a shame that it didn't reach a wider audience when it first came out in 1998. Absolutely stunning is my final thought on this ad-fab film.

A Beautiful Movie!
I rented this one on a whim, and I'm glad that I did. This film is based on the true story of Veronica Franco, a Venetian courtesan who was first admired and then later put on trial for her ability to draw men to her. Her one true love is the dashing Marco (a very excellent Rufus Sewell) whom she could not marry because she was not rich enough. Her mother instead shows her another way to be with the man she loves, and Veronica's journey begins. This film is shot very well;you get the feel of the time and mindset of the people during this period drama. You also understand the limitations placed on women during this time period, and how sexuality was the only option open if a woman wanted to be educated. As Veronica, Catherine McCormack is a great actress, a woman who learns to use both her body and mind to have her way. She expresses great strength and dignity, even when she is accused of being a witch and brought to trial. I love the chemistry between Marco and Veronica;it's sexy without being sleazy. I watched this film several times before returning it to the video store, and I can honestly say that it is one of the most interesting films I have had the pleasure of viewing. See it at least once and judge for yourself.

The Beauty of it all.
Hesitant I am to review this after perusing the many reviews it has already recieved. Many glowing, and several in disdain.

I will agree though with the glowing reviews for the movie is splendid in tugging at the heartstrings and most magnificent with its display of Venice, the city.

If one does research before seeing this movie then I suggest they not bother watching the film and perhaps study a textbook instead. Movies are for enjoying visually and possibly emotionally. They aren't history lessons. I knew only little going into this movie many years ago when I first saw it, I knew it was based on a true story. I didn't care how accurate that story was with the facts, I wanted to see if it could accomplish the feat of entertaining me and not prompting me to walk out of the theatre. Not even close did it come to injecting those latter feelings. I was awestruck. Why?

Beauty. Plain and simple. In the portrayals of the characters by the more then capable actors, to the way that Veronica jousted with the men with her words-something that very few women back in that day were able to do, and quite many never even entertained the thought of doing. To the emotion that flowed effortlessly. For the reason that it tangles you up into a world that you were never a part of and may never be a part of.

So as soon as I could I purchased the DVD, and these are some of my comments below as to why I love it so-

The Actress:
The actress playing Veronica,Catherine McCormick was a delight to watch, not only for her intelligence, but also for the quiet heartbreak that she was displaying. What this film did is portray how one suffers but continues on in silence, trying to show a different face to the rest of the world. Women of early Europe did not have much of a choice when it came to survival, and knowledge was near forbidden. That would make them equal to men and that was punishable for a price. Veronica had a choice, as she was neither poor(though close to it) and she was neither rich...she could marry,if there was someone to marry her as her family no longer had a dowry to provide, so she could marry someone in her class who may not be able to provide for her- or she could become a Courtesan, where at least her intelligence and hunger to learn was allowed to be fed.

The Actor:
I fell in love with Rufus Sewell after watching this movie. He may not be what would be considered a "hunk"(ohh how I hate this word) but he resembles what men back then just may have looked like and how they carried themselves. His character is stoic, quite often burning with rage and love and instead of being able to display the emotions, he goes forth in wonder questioning his position without giving too much away as to why. And when he does get to love Veronica, it's fiercely. He understands why she does what she does, he lets her continue on her path, when most men would have tried to own her. For on this path of hers, he knows they will meet up time to time.

The Controversy???

The movie is a love story, yes. I question those who refer to it as soft porn and are disturbed by the sexuality and the nudity within the film. Surely upon seeing what this film is about they would not be surprised at seeing such. Nudity is nothing to be ashamed of, as neither is what men and women do with another. I see nothing about the movie that would make it soft porn. I see something called "art". I do suggest however, that these same people should avoid French Films at all costs.

I could go on with what it was I loved about the film. There is one part of this film that stands out and grabs attention though, and that is:

The Artistic Design. The Photography. The Lighting. The Costumes. The movie itself, plot and actors aside, was a cinematic wonder. The background set the tone for the rest of the movie, and one would have to have a steel heart not to love and appreciate it.

Oh, and as an aside: I have introduced this film to several men-from my brother, to my father, a friend, and now my husband. Every single one of them love it. This is not a chick flick. It's the romance. Every one of them found it romantic.

Breathtaking History
This movie touches a special place in my heart. As a history and art history lover, the richness of the story and the beauty of the film keep me watching it over and over.

A true story (see The Honest Courtesean) that takes place in Venice in its most gorgeous era, the film brings the viewer into a world forgotten by many. The art direction and the use of the real palaces in Venice complete the total package.

Catherine McCormack is not only beautiful, but a heartfelt actress as well. You may remember her as William Wallace's wife in Braveheart (brunette there).

On a final note, if you are headed to Venice, catch this movie for a quick introduction of the Golden Age of this city and an inside look at those who used to roam the halls of the gorgeous palaces you will see lining the Grand Cannal.

One of my favorites.

Promise not fullfilled
Simply put, this film fails to deliver on a multitude of levels. The very least I expected this movie to provide was some eye candy such as, lush scenery, resplendent costumes, exceptional film quality, and a bunch of really good looking people.

The first thing that struck me is that Catherine McCormack and Rufus Sewell were too old for their respective roles. It's not quite as bad as the days when a 50ish Jimmy Stewart was playing characters in their twenties, but it was still a bit embarrassing. McCormack spent the first half hour of the film quite literally jumping up and down, overwhelmed with girlish enthusiasm. These breathless expressions of glee got old real fast. When she was playing this role she was 26 pretending to be 16. Likewise Sewell was 31 trying to convince us that he was a young rascal looking for a good time.

The dialogue was at best, uneven. At times there seemed to be an attempt to utilize language is such a way as to suggest 16th century Italy, but for the most part the phraseology was distinctly 20th century. The long distant views of Venice were unconvincing and cheaply produced. Given the available technology, this was simply inexcusable and reflected the overall laziness that permeates the movie. Even the costumes looked as if they were retreads from other films.

At the very least I expected to see beautifully lit scenes, reflecting the glorious paintings of that era and magnificent beauty of Venice. Instead, the best that could be said about the cinema photography was that it was undistinguished.

(...) ... Read more

Amazon.com

Although the television show My So-Called Life ran for a mere 19 episodes, its popularity has lived on in syndication, various Web sites (that include fan fiction and episode analysis), and home video. Volume 3 of the video series includes the episodes "Father Figure" and "The Zit." In "Father Figure," Angela's father Graham, who was considering having an extramarital affair, senses that Angela is beginning to pull away from him. He tries to remedy this by giving her and her friend Rayanne Grateful Dead tickets. While Rayanne (who doesn't know her father) is joyous, Angela, who is suspicious, wants nothing to do with the tickets and decides to scalp them. Angela's mother Patty is also struggling with her own father who doubts her ability to run the family business. When the business is audited by the IRS the same night as the concert, fathers and daughters clash as they try to equalize their relationships.

In "The Zit," the sophomore girls top-40 list is released at school. While Rayanne is deemed "most slut potential" and Angela's estranged friend Sharon is voted "best hooters," Angela's only award is a big pimple on her chin. As her self-esteem shrinks, Patty insists she participate in the yearly mother-daughter fashion show, coaching her on "how to look your best." Although Patty has always been told how pretty she is, her own insecurities on aging have projected onto fixing up Angela, who feels she will never live up to her mother's expectations. Bess Armstrong, who plays Patty, gives a complex performance here and Angela and Sharon exchange harsh words in a scene that rings true to life. --Shannon Gee ... Read more

Reviews (2)

My so-called Life was one of the best teen dramas on TV !
The Tv stations who canceled it were crazy!! It was one of the few shows that teens could truly relate to because it didn't have everything to do with, hair clothes and who great your body was like 90210 does not too mentoin other shows on tv!

I don't even have a like life.
I loved this episode of "My So-Called Life". Jordan finding the letter that Angela wrote him, but not intending to give to him, is wonderfully romantic. It brought Angela and Jordan closer together. They formed a bound because of Angela's caring words of support. And they shared their first real kiss. Though confusion in the end left Angela heart broken, it was only an intermission of things to come. ... Read more

Reviews (8)

This show was simply better than television.
It was cancelled because america and the networks were not willing to listen to the loyal veiwers and critics who understood just how special this show really was. No show, other than this one, has ever come so close to trully describing life as an average teen. It showed the emotion of life at home and at school with a brilliant cast of actors who were able to really put themselves in their roles. The moods, the settings, the events felt so real that it was almost like walking back into highschool. This review may sound like to much to believe, but I have never seen a show like this on television since. I can only hope someone decides to put as much time into future works. The series may become a sort of a cult classic in time, but those of us who trully loved it understand the power of brilliant writing, bueatiful scenes , and the trully wonderful cast that made this show so good. Each episode is a lesson and a reminder of what it was like to be a teen. There are few shows on TV that were good enough to be something more that a series of episodes. The creators painted a picture of life for us to view with all of its reality, emotion, drama, anxiety, happiness and pian. For the people who do not understand its attraction to obsession I must ask, what was your highschool life like? This was mine. I thank them for reminding me just how real and emotional a time it was.

Mscl is the most realistc teen series ever.
MSCL is the the best teen series ever. This gripping and heartfelt show left millions of young people like me changed for life. THis is truly the most realistic and honest series ever on tv and it crushed millions of fans worldwide when it was canceled and we are very pleased to be able to re-witness this truly remarkable show agian and agian! it gets better every time, we only wish that we could have all the episodes!

My So-Called Life
My So-Called Life was a great show, that actually caught my attention to watch it. Claire Danes is a wonderful actress, and she can play any role very well. This show was NOTHING like cheezy shows such as Dawson's Creek, it was'nt some fake teen melo-drama that was so completely fake and stupid that it made you want to change the channel. This show was great, and it should'nt have been cancelled. It showed what every day teenagers go through and how they act. I recommend watching this and seeing for yourself how great it is.

help me
sorry- this is not a review- please ask the producers of this video to make it in PAL (or whatever the U.K format is) I would buy them all then

MSCL Rocks
Dude, Like MSCL Rocks and it's so awesome that we can finally watch it on video (since it's oh so premature knock off the air *sob*) nevertheless, we must make due with what they give us and Reruns it shall be. Thanks for selling these awesome tapes. ... Read more

Reviews (153)

Romantic, sumptious, decadent...
I caught this movie late one night when there was nothing else to watch. I was totally captivated and smitten by Catherine McCormack's portrayal of Veronica Franco a real life Courtesan of the 16th century. It was an exquisite film from beginning to end. Jacqueline Biset was superb as Veronica's mother who taught her daughter the powerful arts of her sex and set her upon a path that would eventually lead her into the arms of Senators, Kings and Priests. The understated Rufus Sewell was excellent as the love of her life who at first abandons her when she has to bed the King of France for the sake of her country, but who finally rallies to her side when a jealous young priest accuses her of witchcraft. There are many memorable moments in this film, one being Veronica trying to dissuade her friend from having her daughter become a Courtesan. It is poignant and heartfelt as two women look at the lives they live and wish they were the other. Add to this the scene where Veronica confesses not to being witch before the Catholic Inquisition but just a woman whose choice of profession has been dictated to her by the narrow constraints of Venetian society. This is a film for those who want to be stimulated both sensually and intellectually. It's a shame that it didn't reach a wider audience when it first came out in 1998. Absolutely stunning is my final thought on this ad-fab film.

A Beautiful Movie!
I rented this one on a whim, and I'm glad that I did. This film is based on the true story of Veronica Franco, a Venetian courtesan who was first admired and then later put on trial for her ability to draw men to her. Her one true love is the dashing Marco (a very excellent Rufus Sewell) whom she could not marry because she was not rich enough. Her mother instead shows her another way to be with the man she loves, and Veronica's journey begins. This film is shot very well;you get the feel of the time and mindset of the people during this period drama. You also understand the limitations placed on women during this time period, and how sexuality was the only option open if a woman wanted to be educated. As Veronica, Catherine McCormack is a great actress, a woman who learns to use both her body and mind to have her way. She expresses great strength and dignity, even when she is accused of being a witch and brought to trial. I love the chemistry between Marco and Veronica;it's sexy without being sleazy. I watched this film several times before returning it to the video store, and I can honestly say that it is one of the most interesting films I have had the pleasure of viewing. See it at least once and judge for yourself.

The Beauty of it all.
Hesitant I am to review this after perusing the many reviews it has already recieved. Many glowing, and several in disdain.

I will agree though with the glowing reviews for the movie is splendid in tugging at the heartstrings and most magnificent with its display of Venice, the city.

If one does research before seeing this movie then I suggest they not bother watching the film and perhaps study a textbook instead. Movies are for enjoying visually and possibly emotionally. They aren't history lessons. I knew only little going into this movie many years ago when I first saw it, I knew it was based on a true story. I didn't care how accurate that story was with the facts, I wanted to see if it could accomplish the feat of entertaining me and not prompting me to walk out of the theatre. Not even close did it come to injecting those latter feelings. I was awestruck. Why?

Beauty. Plain and simple. In the portrayals of the characters by the more then capable actors, to the way that Veronica jousted with the men with her words-something that very few women back in that day were able to do, and quite many never even entertained the thought of doing. To the emotion that flowed effortlessly. For the reason that it tangles you up into a world that you were never a part of and may never be a part of.

So as soon as I could I purchased the DVD, and these are some of my comments below as to why I love it so-

The Actress:
The actress playing Veronica,Catherine McCormick was a delight to watch, not only for her intelligence, but also for the quiet heartbreak that she was displaying. What this film did is portray how one suffers but continues on in silence, trying to show a different face to the rest of the world. Women of early Europe did not have much of a choice when it came to survival, and knowledge was near forbidden. That would make them equal to men and that was punishable for a price. Veronica had a choice, as she was neither poor(though close to it) and she was neither rich...she could marry,if there was someone to marry her as her family no longer had a dowry to provide, so she could marry someone in her class who may not be able to provide for her- or she could become a Courtesan, where at least her intelligence and hunger to learn was allowed to be fed.

The Actor:
I fell in love with Rufus Sewell after watching this movie. He may not be what would be considered a "hunk"(ohh how I hate this word) but he resembles what men back then just may have looked like and how they carried themselves. His character is stoic, quite often burning with rage and love and instead of being able to display the emotions, he goes forth in wonder questioning his position without giving too much away as to why. And when he does get to love Veronica, it's fiercely. He understands why she does what she does, he lets her continue on her path, when most men would have tried to own her. For on this path of hers, he knows they will meet up time to time.

The Controversy???

The movie is a love story, yes. I question those who refer to it as soft porn and are disturbed by the sexuality and the nudity within the film. Surely upon seeing what this film is about they would not be surprised at seeing such. Nudity is nothing to be ashamed of, as neither is what men and women do with another. I see nothing about the movie that would make it soft porn. I see something called "art". I do suggest however, that these same people should avoid French Films at all costs.

I could go on with what it was I loved about the film. There is one part of this film that stands out and grabs attention though, and that is:

The Artistic Design. The Photography. The Lighting. The Costumes. The movie itself, plot and actors aside, was a cinematic wonder. The background set the tone for the rest of the movie, and one would have to have a steel heart not to love and appreciate it.

Oh, and as an aside: I have introduced this film to several men-from my brother, to my father, a friend, and now my husband. Every single one of them love it. This is not a chick flick. It's the romance. Every one of them found it romantic.

Breathtaking History
This movie touches a special place in my heart. As a history and art history lover, the richness of the story and the beauty of the film keep me watching it over and over.

A true story (see The Honest Courtesean) that takes place in Venice in its most gorgeous era, the film brings the viewer into a world forgotten by many. The art direction and the use of the real palaces in Venice complete the total package.

Catherine McCormack is not only beautiful, but a heartfelt actress as well. You may remember her as William Wallace's wife in Braveheart (brunette there).

On a final note, if you are headed to Venice, catch this movie for a quick introduction of the Golden Age of this city and an inside look at those who used to roam the halls of the gorgeous palaces you will see lining the Grand Cannal.

One of my favorites.

Promise not fullfilled
Simply put, this film fails to deliver on a multitude of levels. The very least I expected this movie to provide was some eye candy such as, lush scenery, resplendent costumes, exceptional film quality, and a bunch of really good looking people.

The first thing that struck me is that Catherine McCormack and Rufus Sewell were too old for their respective roles. It's not quite as bad as the days when a 50ish Jimmy Stewart was playing characters in their twenties, but it was still a bit embarrassing. McCormack spent the first half hour of the film quite literally jumping up and down, overwhelmed with girlish enthusiasm. These breathless expressions of glee got old real fast. When she was playing this role she was 26 pretending to be 16. Likewise Sewell was 31 trying to convince us that he was a young rascal looking for a good time.

The dialogue was at best, uneven. At times there seemed to be an attempt to utilize language is such a way as to suggest 16th century Italy, but for the most part the phraseology was distinctly 20th century. The long distant views of Venice were unconvincing and cheaply produced. Given the available technology, this was simply inexcusable and reflected the overall laziness that permeates the movie. Even the costumes looked as if they were retreads from other films.

At the very least I expected to see beautifully lit scenes, reflecting the glorious paintings of that era and magnificent beauty of Venice. Instead, the best that could be said about the cinema photography was that it was undistinguished.

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