Twenty years of feels with "Tatsächlich... Love"
The opening scene is at an airport, and Hugh Grant, in his signature wit, shares, "Whenever I get low about the global political chaos, I always think about the arrivals hall at Heathrow Airport. There's a lot of hate and greed in the world they say, but it's not all true."
The film, originally titled "Love Actually," was released in Germany on November 20, 2003. Five weeks before Christmas, it weaves together several stories with a common thread - the love that exudes throughout Great Britain. With restored versions gracing the cinemas in celebration of this touching milestone, "Love Actually" is a timeless treasure that many enjoy every Advent season.
Why re-watch "Love Actually" every year?
This classic Christmas movie features emotional love plights, heartwarming moments, and comedic downturns that continue to resonate. Hugh Grant finds love in the most unexpected of places: the British Prime Minister's office. Bill Nighy serenades us with the lyrics of "Christmas is all around me," weaving in some comedic gold. And Rowan Atkinson's struggle with wrapping presents has become a iconic comedic thread in "Love Actually."
What does the director have to say about the film today?
The love-guru, Richard Curtis, is famous for his heartwarming romantic comedies. He humorously shared with his daughter, Scarlett Curtis, at the Cheltenham Literary Festival that some people felt he had unfairly raised love expectations with his films. Curtis, however, saw it differently. He said, "If all portrayals of love only show how it goes wrong, then you have nothing to give you hope."
Representation in "Love Actually"
Criticisms have surfaced, claiming that some of Curtis's films, including "Love Actually," underrepresented different aspects of society. In addressing these criticisms, Curtis acknowledged that he could have done better, especially in terms of feminism and diversifying his films' casts. He shared that he wished he had included more aspects of diverse cultures and dialogued more on these topics.
Quotes to remember from "Love Actually"
Some of the most inspiring lines from "Love Actually" remain relevant today:
- Hugh Grant: "Because when I walk through that door, all of my life will change. But if she walks through that door, my life won't matter at all."
- Andrew Lincoln: "To me, you're perfect."
- Bill Nighy: "I'm actually in love with my best friend's new wife."
- Alan Rickman: "I'm just a guy who fell in love with a girl whose boyfriend had asked her to marry him before I ever even met her."
In honor of its 20th anniversary, "Love Actually" remains a beloved Christmas classic that continues to captivate audiences with its heartfelt moments and memorable quotes.
