An enjoyable Rom Com

Rating: 7/10 (2 December 2006)

We had a specific interest in this film as my wife and kids watched some of it being filmed in the village of Shere -ironically the bit they saw being filmed was not in the final film-although my teenage son was compensated by seeing Cameron Diaz in the flesh! We saw this yesterday at a special preview. I have to admit I enjoyed it more than I expected to. It's pleasant romantic comedy. I find it annoying when people "talk down" about films like this, what do you expect? if you want Shakespeare, go and see Shakespeare. This film is beautifully shot in some lovely locations - Surrey disguised with fake snow to look picture postcard perfect, and the Sun and blue skies of LA looking very appealing as we are in the depths of a British winter. The leads generally do a good job with their roles,there's a good subplot with Eli Wallach, where it's nice to see the older generation being treated with some respect, and there are some good laughs in the film. As with life in general you can always find fault if you want to and the minor issues that I felt the film had were 1. It's about 10 minutes too long, it could have done with tighter editing. 2. The script is a little patchy humour wise, there are some laugh out loud moments but also some opportunities missed. 3. Jude Law, it's nice to see a Brit actor getting a lead role where he isn't the villain, but he comes across as very smug, I have the feeling that if he were chocolate he would eat himself, also in this film he seems to be playing Hugh Grant - even down to a pair of dodgy glasses ( a la Grant in Four weddings) to show that he isn't just handsome but can look grown up as well. My wife says that I am merely jealous... Overall if you want a pleasant undemanding film then this will suit you nicely.