Better than expected

Rating: 7/10 (29 December 2006)

When I visited the MultiPlex, the choice was between "The Good Shephard" and "The Holiday". I went w/my wife, I let her chose since the last few times I picked, she snoozed.
Anyhow, "The Holiday" was clearly a cut above the ordinary romantic comedy fare. First, Cameron Diaz was simply luminous. Obviously, I've seen her many times before but for some reason, for the first time (at least to me) she appeared to be truly beautiful. But the real surprise was the natural performance of Jude Law. At first, I thought he was simply a reprise of his prior roles. But then, all of the sudden, he started to hit some disarmingly true notes, like when we are introduced to his children and then when he admits that he has fallen for Diaz.
The other out of the ordinary aspect was the Eli Wallach character. While he may at first blush appear to be out of his element, he brings in an unexpected storyline about the "old" Hollywood and connects with Kate Winslet character in a very touching way.
I would also be remiss if I failed to mention that Ms. Winslet turns in another fine performance but I guess at this point, that is to be expected and therefore, sometimes overlooked.
All in all, a pleasant surprise which I rate a 7 and I am an extremely harsh rater, almost never doling out a 10 or even a 9.