Venice, the 16th century: With her family fortune dissipated, and life with the young noble (Rufus Sewell) she loved forbidden, Veronica Franco (Catherine McCormack) took the one avenue open to women wanting access to knowledge and power: training as a courtesan. She becomes society's most demanded companion, but her growing influence makes her dangerous enemies. Beautifully mounted effort co-stars Oliver Platt, Fred Ward, Naomi Watts, and Jacqueline Bisset. 111 min. Widescreen (Enhanced); Soundtrack: English Dolby Digital stereo.