A Thought-Provoking and Enjoyable Film in Disguise

Rating: 7/10 (30 January 2004)

When I first heard about "Love Actually," I didn't want to see it because of the reasons for which it was rated R. Yet when it was nominated for a Golden Globe and I saw it was playing at the "$1.50 Theater," I decided to give it a try. What I got was much more than my money's worth: a truly delightful, thoughtful film.
"Love Actually" is advertised as a romantic comedy, but I believe the movie was much more than that. Richard Curtis' story is complex, yet believable, showing the ties between between several different people with the common factor of love. Also, the love portrayed is not only romantic love, but also love for friends and love for family. The love in the movie is often unexpected, sometimes not, but always enjoyable. The movie was simply hilarious, seemingly without much effort. Also, Craig Armstrong's score is simply immaculate, portraying the themes of the movie through both uplifting and dramatic pieces. The score succeeds in not only showing the ups and downs of love, but also how little events can seem over-dramatic to those involved, especially those "in love."
Complaints: I have very few for this movie, because of how extremely enjoyable it is, but I must say two things. First, the beginning, maybe, fifteen minutes of the movie seem chaotic,as Richard Curtis switches from one story to the next. Yet the movie quickly warms up as the characters in the movie are developed. Second, those who read my reviews probably get tired of me saying this, but there was a little too much nudity for my tastes. However, I will say this, I liked the point that the director makes through his use of sex scenes. Nevertheless, the film still could've been even better if the scenes had been implied instead of shown.
See "Love Actually," not to see a mindless comedy, but to see possibly the most enjoyable Golden Globe-nominated movie of 2003.
Final Grade: A-.