Did you know that the airport reunion scene at the beginning of “Love Actually” is real footage of travelers? This scene is a perfect example of how well this movie captures human emotion.
The film intertwines nearly a dozen interconnected storylines, which help prove its opening thesis that love actually is all around.
The result is a film that is both a box-office success and a mentally stimulating experience. Some movies fade away after the credits roll, but “Love Actually” is definitely not one of them.
Audiences adore “Love Actually” for its depictions of love in a multitude of ways. Viewers embrace “Love Actually” as a holiday classic; the film takes place in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
Where the movie can be seen
The movie can be seen on various streaming services, including Amazon Prime, Netflix and Apple TV. The movie is rated R for sexual content, language and nudity.
Background and plot
The 2003 film, directed by Richard Curtis, features well-known actors like Hugh Grant, Emma Thompson, and Colin Firth.
The Rom-Com perfectly weaves together multiple stories about love in London. “Love Actually” follows the interconnected group of Brits in the Christmas season as they navigate love and its many forms, from romantic longing to familial devotion. Through humor, heartbreak, and overlapping stories, the film explores how love can be joyful, yet deeply complicated.
Characters
A favorite character from “Love Actually” is that of Sam, played by actor Thomas Brodie-Sangster. Sam is an emotionally intelligent elementary schooler who yearned for his schoolyard crush and even learned the drums to win her heart. His character shows us the innocent nature of love and explores the depth of unrequited love.
In “Love Actually”, the acting is very detrimental to its success. Performances like those of Emma Thompson bring emotional realism, especially as the story of her husband cheating on her unravels. As she opens her Christmas gift, you see the betrayal and brokenness in her face because she realizes her husband bought the expected gift for his mistress instead. Her restrained reaction makes the moment relatable and realistic.
“Love Actually” is definitely successful in proving its own statement that “love actually is all around”. If you enjoy romcoms, following multiple story lines, or if you simply have a big heart, viewers will definitely enjoy “Love Actually.”
Criticism
While the film is definitely charming and heartfelt, some of the storylines could feel slightly outdated through a modern lens. Despite its popularity, modern viewers criticize “Love Actually” for romanticizing intrusion and cheating and for its problematic power dynamics.
Some of these problematic power dynamics are boss and worker, showcased twice between the Prime Minister and Natalie, and Harry and Mia. These relationships are questioned due to a lack of professionalism and the possibility of manipulation.
Another questionable dynamic is that between Mark and Juliet. Mark poetically confesses his love to Juliet, knowing that she is newly married to his best friend. This places her in an uncomfortable position where she would have to choose between her marriage and Mark’s feelings. The bold gesture was intrusive and creepy, placing unnecessary pressure on the new bride.
Above all, “Love Actually” will always be a culturally iconic holiday film that captures the emotional intensity of love, especially during the holiday season. It helps to remind us, in the stressful times, that love actually is all around.
