Delivers a happiness high note, there will not be a better romantic comedy this year or next

Rating: 9/10 (16 February 2007)

Alex (Hugh Grant) was a member of a popular eighties band called Pop. The group had a successful run but split when the man who wrote their songs' lyrics went solo. Now, Alex makes appearances at amusement parks and fairs, doing his old songs in front of fans that are growing older but are still adoring. Suddenly, his longtime agent gets a request from the hot-and-now girl of music, Cora; she wants Alex to write a new song, just for her. Seems Cora loved Pop and Alex when she was younger. The trouble is, Alex is a great composer but, by his own admission, a weak lyricist. When the new plant caretaker, Sophie (Drew Barrymore) arrives at his apartment, Alex is brainstorming with a gloomy lyrics writer, trying to get started on the new song called The Way Back Into Love. Sophie throws out a few possible verses, almost without realizing what she is doing. Alex immediately sees he has a chance to complete the song with her help. Will she do it? And, is there more a stir between the two of them than merely completing a song? This is a lovely, funny, and touching romantic comedy. Grant is a marvel as the aging star, not only because his humor is always charming but, also because he can sing well! Very well, as a matter of fact. Barrymore, who holds her own in the singing department, too, is likewise funny and sweet as the lady who finds the heart can open up again to possibilities. Campbell Scott, an always welcome performer, does a nice little turn as a dastardly former boyfriend of Sophie's. Then, too, newcomer Haley Bennett is a find as the young singer, Cora; she is lovely and sings like a lark. All of a movie's usual assets, such as nice costumes, good sets, and high production values, are present. On top of that, the music in the film is first rate. In fact, the main song, The Way Back Into Love, is beautiful and should be nominated for awards. Therefore, besides high tailing it to the movies to see this gem, stop at the music store on the way back home. You will really want the soundtrack resonating with you in the weeks and months ahead, too.