Cute and predictable, but there's plenty there

Rating: 8/10 (17 May 1999)

With the same producers, writers and star, much has been made of this as the 'new Four Weddings' - don't be fooled. The similarities are there - Hugh Grant, an American star, and lots of 'typically British' humour, but the focus is much more on the romance in this film. As usual with most romantic comedies, the outcome is predictable, but getting there is enjoyable, and there are plenty of neat directorial tricks to keep you interested. The scene conveying the passing of time as Grant walks through a market is a gem. The story is highly implausible, but at the same time believable enough, and this is much to do with the genuine chemistry between Grant and Julia Roberts. I hate to say it, but I did enjoy both of their performances. This film deserves to be, and probably will be, as big as Four Weddings.