Fellini's Casanova is a 1976 Italia film directed by the imitable Federico Fellini. Set in the 18th century Europe, the film follows Giacomo Casanova (Donald Sutherland) as he descends into a freakish world of wanton lust. Visually stunning, this film begins with the carnival in Venice where Casanova defiles a woman dressed as a nun for the voyeuristic pleasure of a rich patron. After the carnival, Casanova rows back to the mainland where he is arrested and sent to prison for practicing alchemy. Eventually, Casanova escapes from prison and travels to Paris where he meets aging socialite Madame D'Urfe (Cicely Browne) who is captivated by his knowledge of alchemy. Following Casanova's directions, Madame D'Urfe engages in ritualistic intercourse with him in an effort to obtain the soul of a man. Casanova's downward descent continues as he dabbles in voyeuristic homosexuality, has intercourse with giants and dwarves, and competes for the most orgasms in an hour. As the film inexorably moves toward its conclusion, we see Casanova's world unravel as he begins to age and his exploits take their toll. Fellini fans will be mesmerized by the debauched reality created by the myth of Casanova.moreless
