Charming Holiday Romances

Rating: Null/10 (20 January 2009)

Sweet syrup is expected from romantic comedies but what makes them tick and likable, even if they are predictable is the charm factor. 'The Holiday' is a charming romantic comedy. It pretty much has all the ingredients of romantic comedies and I loved how Myers has used numerous references to old classics. The locations are marvelous. Amanda's luxurious condo contrasts well with Iris's cozy cottage but they both give exude a feeling of comfort and home. The soundtrack is a plus and cinematography is brilliant.
'The Holiday' tells two simultaneous stories (which are interlinked of course) but I liked Iris's holiday story more than that of Amanda. Thankfully, the director does not overtly focus on contrasting the two and the dialogues are a nice inclusion. Most of the comedy is not overdone either as its genuinely funny.
The Amanda and Graham love story is more or less the typical holiday romance one has witnessed earlier but it is still a fun watch mainly due to the two leads. Both Cameron Diaz and Jude Law share wonderful chemistry. The genre is not anything new to Diaz and she definitely has become quite skillful at it. In the beginning of the movie, she reminded me a little of Meg Ryan. Law holds his own proving that he is competent in this genre. Edward Burns has a small but hilarious scene which reminds one of the Romeo and Juliet balcony scene except this one is the reverse of that.
Iris's holiday has the added charm of the endearing Kate Winslet - Eli Wallach track which was such a delight to watch. This story is more about Iris's growth into an independent self-sufficient woman. Winslet's chemistry with both Black and Wallach is beautifully displayed and the actress demonstrates a flair for comedy. Black too downplays his comedy making Miles different from the usual goofy characters he is normally associated with. Eli Wallach is simply superb.
'The Holiday' is quite a warm and fluffy piece of entertainment and a good enough holiday movie that will entertain. One should not expect anything other than a rom-com but this one has an extra appeal of a stellar cast and a splendid subplot.