Thursday January 5, 2006
ENTERTAINMENT

Heath Ledger's spirited 'Casanova' energizes romantic farce
By JACK GARNER
Gannett News Service


As the legendary lover of 16th century Venice, Casanova has seldom been summarily dismissed by a woman. But Francesca Bruni has no interest in the Lothario's romantic whims and sexist ways. Francesca is a woman of letters — and a feminist long before her time — and has far more on her mind than becoming Casanova's latest conquest. It all befuddles Casanova, who has never been told "no" so forcefully before.

That's the setup for Casanova, Lasse Hallstrom's delightful confection, an effervescent film that puts Casanova in the midst of romantic farce. His tale has been told many times before, but seldom with such lighthearted flair and puckish humor.

Heath Ledger delivers a sprightly, self-effacing performance, creating a likable rogue with just enough spunk to counter Francesca's naysaying ways. Ledger's work as the outgoing, thoroughly heterosexual and very sensual Casanova establishes a perfect contrast to his monosyllabic, introverted cowboy, agonizing through a gay affair in Brokeback Mountain. Actors can only dream of two such diverse portrayals opening in the same season.

Sienna Miller creates a lovely if elusive Francesca, expressing her character's intelligence and fire, as well as the passion beneath the surface that inspires Casanova's devotion. Further enlivening the film are two classic scene-stealers — Jeremy Irons in a rare comic turn as a determined bishop of the inquisition, in pursuit of the nefarious Casanova, and Oliver Platt as a competing suitor with a nature both pompous and insecure.

Hallstrom (of The Cider House Rules and Chocolat) brings a swift pace and light touch to the film, while he and cinematographer Oliver Stapleton joyfully revel in Venice's evocative locales.