If I was to describe the film in the most sparse way possible, it would in fact be “Four Weddings and a Funeral”. That’s one of the film’s best qualities, it’s direct and doesn’t have a single scene that I didn’t enjoy. I really, really enjoyed this. Romcoms from the 90s hit a different note, especially ones that feature Hugh Grant. So here’s a list of all the reasons I liked it.
- As mentioned before, it’s direct. It’s a romcom, and almost every scene serves that purpose. There are some subplots, but they don’t feel seperate from the love story. It’s more fleshing out the characters rather than having a storyline that is other. I can’t remember really any other romance that is so direct in its love story.
- Charles (Hugh Grant) is a brilliant main character. He’s a perpetually late, bumbling, yet clever hero. His first bit of dialogue is “Fuck! Fuck, fuck, fuck!” and yet you’re rooting for him from the very beginning. I care about him.
- Charles’ friends are great. Well written and well acted. It’s a great supporting cast. I was going to list out my favourite characters but that is actually all of them.
- Surprise Rowan Atkinson.
- Sordid matters handled with classic English sophistication.
- One-liners at every corner. “I think I’d better be where other people are not.”
- Really, the whole script. It’s funny. “Everybody blames you too.”
- The more sombre moments are dealt with appropriately.
- Can see background character’s progression. Nice easter eggs.
- Has a disabled character – Charles’ brother David. I really, really liked how this was handled. They use sign language throughout the film, and they have a very realistic brotherly relationship.
- Apparently, the love interest Carrie (Andie McDowell) was once voted the most annoying character. I didn’t hate her but I didn’t care too much for her either. What I did appreciate is that she’s quick-witted and really quite formidable. She’s not a damsel in distress.
- and HUGH GRANT. Obviously. Here at his most floppy-haired.
I loved this. It’s the right balance of light and thunderbolts. It’s perfect for summer honestly.
Watch it: with friends on summer day before the Hulu (and Mindy Kaling!) produced version releases on 31st July in USA.
The Film Reports 