Love, Actually (2003) is an ensemble romance movie set at Christmas time. This multi-plot story follows people in complicated relationships from London looking for love. As far as these kinds of films go, it is the top tier in my opinion. Although it's not my favorite Christmas romance film, it's still a satisfactory watch. Read here! Spoilers may follow.
9. Colin, Tony, and the Americans
This is the most forgettable storyline for me. I remember what happens, but it doesn't really affect much else in the film. Not much screen time is given to them.
8. John and Just Judy
This plotline also doesn't have much screen time. It's definitely an interesting one where they meet on an adult movie set. It does have a famous actor in Martin Freeman known for The Hobbit and the hit show Sherlock. He does a fine job alongside Joanna Page.
7. Juliet, Peter, and Mark
This one has great actors and actresses too in Keira Knightley, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Andrew Lincoln. That's Mordo from Doctor Strange, Elizabeth from Pirates of the Caribbean, and Rick from The Walking Dead. This one is interesting because Lincoln's character is secretly in love with Knightley. In my opinion, it's lust not love because he has barely ever talked to her. I can't ignore the giant card scene though. It's one of the most popular moments, and it's parodied in many television shows. While it is lower on my list, it's still a decent story for the film.
6. Sarah, Karl, and Michael
This story follows Laura Linney mainly, and she's the best part. She is looking for romance. Every time she seems to be close, she has to go take care of her brother. This looks at the responsibility we face with taking care of a family member in need.
5. Billy Mack and Joe
In this one, it's not a romance story but a friendship. The aging rocker (Bill Nighy) is trying to reach the spotlight again. It's a humorous performance. His "fat manager" turns out to be the guy that he's closest to in life. I enjoy having this story thrown into the mix.
4. Harry, Karen, and Mia
This particular storyline involves the late Alan Rickman in a surprising love triangle. The hot new secretary Mia (Heike Makatsch) has set her sights on him. This one is sad. Although he didn't technically commit adultery, he did in his heart. Seeing Emma Thompson crying was a heartbreaking moment. They do opt to stay together which is best if it can be remedied.
3. Jamie and Aurelia
Colin Firth is a horror novelist fresh off finding his partner cheating with his brother. That's a heavy burden. However, he finds a new relationship in Lúcia Moniz. I like the aspect of them being in a separate place from the rest of the characters. The love story is quite interesting considering how fast their romance blossoms.
2. Daniel, Sam, and Joanna
This one is sad at first. The boys (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) mother and Daniel's (Liam Neeson) wife has just passed away. This one involves the boy and a girl he says he loves. This storyline has the largest scene involving the "Christmas" play which happened to involve lobsters and octopuses apparently. It's the most fleshed out and possibly the most screen time. However, my number one spot goes to another.
1. David and Natalie
My appreciation for Hugh Grant knows no bounds. He's a newly elected prime minister that is looking for a Mrs. Prime Minister. Natalie (Martine McCutcheon) is working there, and something starts to flame. Between the charms of Grant and the romance between the two, it lands my number one.
Overall, it's an exceptional romance film for Christmas time. My movie rating is B.
Comments