Twenty years after its release, "Love Actually" director Richard Curtis feels a tad foolish about the movie's narrow representation and lack of diversity. Interviewed by Diane Sawyer in the ABC News documentary "Laughter and Secrets of True Love: 20 Years Later," Curtis admitted that the movie's homogeneity gave him a queasy feeling.
The tale of interconnected love stories, starring the likes of Alan Rickman, Emma Thompson, Hugh Grant, and more, has remained a cherished holiday favorite. Despite the flick's popularity, it prompted discussions about societal shifts in norms and expectations that critics believe the film fell short of addressing.
In a piece penned for the Guardian 14 years later, Simon Callow, who played Gareth, criticized the response from the public, who claimed they had never understood that queer individuals could experience love like anyone else.
While some argue that "Love Actually" has aged poorly, the film's enduring themes of love and connection continue to resonate with its audience. Curtis insisted that the film remains relevant in celebrating love in all its forms without turning overly sweet.
With society evolving and audiences demanding greater representation in storytelling, it's clear that Curtis would approach filmmaking differently if given the chance. Nevertheless, "Love Actually" remains an iconic holiday staple for its timeless themes and appealing performances.
