Touchstone Pictures’ new film “Casanova” tells the story of the legendary lover of the same name.

Apart from his romantic conquests, the real Casanova claims to have acted as a soldier, magician, clergyman, outlaw, inventor, diplomat, writer, musician and lawyer in his 73 years.

The film takes place circa 1753 in Venice when Casanova (Heath Ledger), the notorious playboy, meets his match in the beautiful and smart Francesca (Sienna Miller). Francesca is the only woman who seemingly can resist the charms of Casanova. In order to get close to and to win the heart of the strong-willed beauty, he masks himself behind a series of disguises and false names. He has more to worry about than simply wooing Francesca, however. The Inquisition is after Casanova to convict him for his questionable morals.

Through a series of mad chases on roof tops, sword-fights, and swift footed manipulations Casanova attempts to keep the Inquisition at bay while getting close to Francesca.

Having seen numerous previews for “Casanova,” I wasn’t under the impression that it would be a particularly deep or thought-provoking film. I was right. To be quite honest, it wasn’t all that memorable.

Set in Venice, there are moments that show the beauty of the canal-lined city, but I feel the setting was under-utilized. Several stunts were clearly done against a green screen, and I swear I could almost see Heath Ledger’s outline against the faux background of the Venetian sky.

“Casanova” isn’t a complete wash, however. There are some very humorous moments and several times I even laughed out loud. The cast includes veteran actors Jeremy Irons, Oliver Platt and Lena Olin as well as young A-listers Heath Ledger and Sienna Miller.

Another positive aspect is that it’s a short and lighthearted film, unlike many of the last minute Oscar hopefuls that are coming out at box offices nationwide in recent weeks.

If you’re a fan of Heath Ledger, but you aren’t interested in seeing “Brokeback Mountain,” or you’re looking to “zone-out” with some light entertainment then you’ll probably be entertained by “Casanova.”

It’s not a film I would pay to see again, and it won’t be added to my personal DVD collection, but in the future, if I am bored and there is nothing better on television, I might re-watch this film.

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