Dangerous Beauty (1998)

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 Amazon.com

 Favourite Movie of All Time
This is an amazing film. Clearly a lot of research went into the costumes and history of the time. This has become a favourite for a number of my family members both here and in England. There was a problem with the product. An empty case was delivered in error. Amazon quickly rectified the problem without any hassle. April 20, 2008

 excellent
this movie is one of my all time favorites! Sexy and smart - it shows the power of a smart, educated, and beautiful woman. this is a must see!!! March 3, 2008

 Palpable onscreen chemistry!
I don't usually enjoy the standard Hollywood romance films, but this is not one of those! It is very well-acted, desperately romantic, funny, a true story, with a powerful statement about the lives women endured, and a dastardly Oliver Platt to boot! I was completely swooning for Rufus Sewel, and the onscreen chemistry made me ache for hours afterwards--I'd say it's the best I've seen since Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer in Ladyhawk (if not better!). My only complaint was that it didn't have any special features, but I just loved this movie! February 17, 2008

 Pretty but Empty
This wasn't a very good movie. I'm surprised by all of the high reviews. It was very rich looking and lavish but the storyline seemed very unrealistic and silly. The trial at the end was especially lame. December 9, 2007

 For lack of a dowry
Veronica Franco (Catherine McCormack) cannot wed the man she loves, Marco Venier (Rufus Sewell). And she must support their family--her mother (once a courtesan) offers Veronica the same option. Becoming a courtesan is the best choice for Veronica, since she must now be the support of her family. The film tells Veronica and Marco's story--through Venetian life, the Turkish War, and finally the Spanish Inquisition's visit to Venice.

"Dangerous Beauty" is one of the most gorgeous films I've ever seen. The film really does capture the sheer opulence and grace of Venice during the 1600's--as well as some of the seedier hardscrabble facts. The film is well worth a watch and if you truly enjoy historical films, the price is very reasonable. November 20, 2007

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