Dangerous Beauty (1998)

Dangerous Beauty (1998) may seem like a romance novel but it’s actually about a real woman. Based on Margaret Rosenthal’s non-fiction book “The Honest Courtesan” (1992), the lavish biopic follows a Venetian vamp who is accused of witchcraft in the 16th Century. The saga starts when Veronica Franco (Catherine McCormack) is deemed too poor to marry her wealthy lover Marco Venier (Rufus Sewell). That’s when her mother Paola (Jacqueline Bissett) steps in and suggests Veronica earn a living as a high class courtesan. So, that’s why they say, “Mother knows best!” Considering Catherine’s looks, Veronica becomes a big hit as she reveals her ravishing rack in the sack with various men. In fact, one of her clients is the King of France (Jake Weber). Yes, “it’s good to be the king!” Even though Marco is married to another, he gets jealous and returns to his ex for sex. Their skintastic act means we get to view Ms. McCormack’s McHoots and McGlutes. We’re lovin’ it when she rides her guy in bed. But just when it looks like there will be a happy ending in sight, the historic hottie gets blamed for the plague. When Veronica goes before the Inquisition, Marco uses his silver tongue to get her off — in more ways than one! Thanks to its setting, the costume drama features plenty of cleavage via the corseted gowns worn by Giulia (Naomi Watts), Beatrice (Moira Kelly), and Laura (Joanna Cassidy). All in all, you’ll want a piece from this period piece!