An Instant Romantic Classic: Without the Cheese

Rating: 9/10 (26 December 2006)

Whenever I see previews for a romantic-comedy involving Hugh Grant, usually I automatically make a mental note to not see that film. But this movie just felt different than the usual sappy smooch flick. That, combined with a high IMDb rating, provoked me to see this one.
Love Actually is a romantic comedy that thoughtfully shows different people (of different race, age, etc.) that are all involved in some predicament with love during the time around Christmas (unofficially Valentine's Day's long, lost brother). Love throws so many twists and curve balls at every individual in this movie. Yet each character attempts to rebound and step up to get what they can.
For one, it was fortunate to be blessed with a great cast with great direction. Even Hugh Grant (to an extent) is believable. There's some great character development which is brilliantly pulled off, considering the amount of characters. They all wonderfully demonstrate so many natural emotions that are a result of love- whether they are successful or not. There's bound to be at least one character that you'll find yourself relating to by the end of the movie.
The writing is great. It lacks all that sappy cheesiness usually found in these movies. It's very sincere and true. Even clever, at times. It all seems to mesh perfectly with the acting- the mark of a good film.
Music adds so much to a movie- and this movie got a huge help from the great audio selections. Everything from a in-movie cover of "All You Need is Love" to occasional Beach Boys tracks. These feel-good songs really put a lot of emphasis on how great love can really can be.
This movie is a true gem and a must-see. I wish there could be more movies like this one; a movie that really finds a solid, pleasant subject-matter (in this case, love) and sticks to it. It never deviates from it. I usually stray away from most romantic-comedies because I'm single and get irritated at how much most movies from that genre rub romance in your face. But this movie does it in a way which leaves you hopeful and satisfied. You feel good about yourself. And therefore, I strongly recommend this movie to anyone.
9 out of 10.