First of all...I loved it! This film is by far one of the more positive and motivational films out there. Here is a story about a woman in the 16th century who wants to make something of her life and hopefully marry the man she is in love with. The problem is that the man she is in love with has a higher status in society than her and he can't have anything to do with her. So what does she do...she becomes a courtesan (or more simply...a high-priced prostitute). As a courtesan she can read, write, and hang out with the powerful, the intellectuals, and the elite (which includes the man she loves). Catherine McCormack was cast in this role after screen-tests were provided to over 200 actresses, and she definitely earned the right to be in this film. She was so believable in her role, so determined to make something of her life and no matter what it personally cost, she felt the benefits far outweighed them. Her mother, Jacqueline Bisset was great as her teacher...yep, she was a courtesan too. You see relative newcomer Rufus Sewell as a Senator in 16th century Venice and Oliver Platt as his drinking buddy. At the end of the film, it is like watching the "Rocky" of prostitutes taking on the religious right (the Inquisition) at a hearing that would even put Kenneth Starr to shame. If you get over the initial display of scenery (that is why it has an R rating), you will find yourself enthralled with the story. Bottom line...don't expect to see a cameo by our President in this film, it took place in a different century...but a few times I did imagine Monica using a few lines from the film for her defense.

\"Dangerous Beauty\" is a European history lesson as connected with the events of America Today. a beautiful film about conflicts in 16th Century Venice. A film of sexual overtones. A film about freedom of sexuality from the church. That is what this film is all about. A bold film.