The one exception

Rating: 10/10 (7 May 2005)

Romantic comedy, eh? Totally hate them. Yet with one exception by now.
Love Actually manages the impossible by being both romantic and funny. Furthermore it turned out to be quite clever and unpredictable at times. Here's a picture - for once - the plot of which is NOT drawn up at board meetings and based on demographic surveys. It does have its weak moments - what film doesn't - but the pleasing variety of plot keeps the viewer interested throughout the movie.
Casting is brilliant all round; somewhat predictable at times, but not annoyingly so. And most familiar faces managed to squeeze an ounce of fresh performance from themselves. I've always liked Rickman's grumpy style, but here it got some new dimensions. The big stars actually managed to downplay their most prominent features, thus creating an even playground for all and a very balanced whole.