"Casanova" has set out to seduce the Venice Film Festival with the debut screening of the movie. Based on the life of the 18th century Venetian womaniser, Swedish director Lasse Hallstrom's movie was shot in the ancient city.

Australia's Heath Ledger is the sly but likeable charmer. He plays opposite Sienna Miller.

The British actress said she relished the role.

"I was really drawn to this role, obviously, because she is, you know, this early feminist and she is this strong and independent kind of woman amongst all these other quite flirtatious silly women," Miller told a press conference.

"And she really holds firm to what she believes in, which is equal rights for women and, kind of, not being seduced.

"So, as a character, it was amazing to play.

"It is very rare for a girl my age to be offered a character that is that strong and independent." Independence and strength are traits Miller is likely drawing upon as she finds herself in the media spotlight after her ex-fiance Jude Law admitted having an affair with his nanny.