Ok. This was a fairly decent movie. Not that I felt anything for the primary characters -- I didn't. But it was cute in an endearing sort of way.
First, let's start with the premise: plain guy with eccentric family meets Hollywood's biggest star, who falls for him. I guess it could happen. But with Julia Roberts' charm, and Hugh Grant's likeability, this should be a movie that just tugs at you and draws you in. For me, it wasn't.
What I did notice is that this was a movie with a strong anti-papparazzi message. Fame isn't all that it's cracked up to be, and on top of that, famous people are still people. Hugh Grant has been the victim of a zealous press seeking to make a big story of his encounter in a parked car, and we know that Alec Baldwin is not oh-so-keen on the photographic press. Julia Roberts probably has bitter memories when she thinks about how her whole relationship with Keifer (and Lyle, for that matter) was splattered across the tabloids. So, was it ironic that these actors chose to star in this movie?
Also, the "flat-mate" that people find endearing did steal the show. Sure. But I was annoyed by him. I thought that he never really added to Grant's William Thacker character's depth. In fact, William belittles his flat-mate openly for the first half-film. Only when things start souring with the Famous Anna Scott -- in part due to the roommate -- does he give anything resembling friendly advice. And Grant's character quotes this advice when wooing. Why?
Why, indeed. Why would each person give the other so many chances? It reminds me "So I Married an Ax Murderer" (a great film, by the way) in that trust was broken and then second chances were given again and again. I know it's just a movie, but still... is some realism too much to ask?
Yes, it's a good film. Not a tear-jerker, but a good romantic comedy. There are some good laughs in there, and both leads put in good performances, with some great dialogue and lines. But if it comes down to this or Best Friend's Wedding, see the latter and save the $7.50. A 6