It's that time of year again. Christmas is just around the corner. So, I've already begun to bust out my favorite holiday movies that I watch every year. It's just like my horror movie cycles that happen every Halloween, but without the blood and gore. That being said, of course, there are an equal amount of made-for-TV Christmas movies that have become a Holiday staple in my household. Love Actually is one that my friends got me started on a couple of years ago, and it has become one of my favorite films to watch any time of year. In essence, it really isn't a "Christmas" movie, but several love stories that occur at Christmas time. In my opiniong, it has certainly upstaged and overpowered the other films by its writer (Notting Hill, Bridget Jones' Diary, etc.).
It's Christmas in 2003, and love is all around. Through its series of love stories that are all somehow connected, writer and director Richard Curtis creates a truly special film that will be around for ages. There are too many characters and plots to discuss here, but they add up to make the film all the more enjoyable and interesting. As the DVD case says, this is "The Ultimate Romantic Comedy." That does not mean that it is a sappy mess. It is hilarious throughout, and will entertain anyone who watches it. Personally, my favorite character is Billy Mack, played to hilarious perfection by Bill Nighy). Nighy plays an aged rock star who is trying to recapture his once-popular image in a world of hip boy bands.
The phenomenal ensemble cast that populates this spectacular film includes a legendary cast: Emma Thompson, Alan Rickman, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightly, Laura Linney, Rowan Atkinson, and Billy Bob Thorton (who plays a very humorous spoof of President George W. Bush). The cast work extremely well together and develop a highly complex plot which utilizes their individual talents and skills as actors. Another highly effective tactic used by the filmmakers is the interesting soundtrack. The tracks range from Christmas songs to classics from Motown.
Whether you like romantic comedies or not, Love Actually is definitely a must-see as it provides a hilarious look at relationships. The great cast and script make for a film which will be remembered for a long time. This heart-felt story deserves its place among the Christmas classics that have preceded it.
My Grade: A
Release Date: November 14, 2003
Rating: R for sexuality, nudity and language.
Running Time: 135 min.
Director: Richard Curtis
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