christmas film review: love actually

Around this time every year, there are a few things that never fail to get me into the Christmas spirit – decorating the tree, sneaking fruit mince pies and of course, watching Love Actually. With one of the most memorable casts and soundtracks of the noughties, this movie has already become a classic. Tackling the interconnected storyline style with much more success than recent attempts such as New Years Eve, the movie captures a kind of Christmas magic that doesn’t have to do with Santa and his sleigh (not that there’s anything wrong with that).

Set in London in the lead up to the big day, Love Actually follows the triumphs and failures of characters looking for love. From a Prime Minister (Hugh Grant) taking an interest in his assistant, to a ten-year-old boy (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) finding the love of his life in his school band, each story is unique and sweet in its own right.

It seems as though nearly every single famous British actor features (Colin Firth, Keira Knightley and Emma Thompson amongst others) yet the movie doesn’t rely on this, with clever humour and interesting characters adding to the glamour of the celebrities. There are some truly memorable moments including Hugh Grant as Prime Minister dancing to his heart’s delight at 10 Downing Street, for example.

It’s almost impossible to choose a favourite storyline, but the love triangle between Juliet (Keira Knightley), her husband Peter (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and his best friend Mark (Andrew Lincoln) is honest and bittersweet, and definitely a highlight. Despite some serious sadness that goes on, the movie’s ending is exciting and happy, and the perfect way to get ready for some Christmas cheer of your own.

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