1 Droll and underwritten
I picked this movie up with high hopes as I enjoy watching both Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Who wouldn't? They make the perfect couple. But thats about all they make in this movie, there's virtually no feeling of chemistry between them and other than a rather causual relationship they have between them. There's absolutely no romance. I guess I was hoping for a more 'Lost in Translation' feel.
Shot mostly around Hugh Grant's apartment and surrounding town there's not much scenery change or excitement. The most there was to get interested about was when Julia decides she wants to sleep with him, and then runs off the very next morning because she won't stick around to listen to him explain why the reporters are there.
Oops, I got ahead of myself. The reporters are there because Julia Roberts is supposed to be a famous American Actress. Duh, like she wasn't to begin with. A famous actress playing a famous actress is rather redundant don't you think?
The only reason this movie is getting three stars is because like I said, I really admire Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. Sadly, thats the sole reason.
2 "What is it about men & nudity?"
This is one of my favourite movies, it's just so great, and so funny at the same time. Everyone already knows the story, so I'm not going to go into that here. I love the friendships between the group of friends, and the actors who play them. Particularly Rhys Ifans was my favourite, with his strong, Welsh accent. It's such a sweet movie, with lots of romantic, teary moments, and it's also very memorable. Julia Roberts is an absolute gem in this, and Hugh Grant is his usual floppy haired self, even having a childhood nickname revealed of "Flopsie".
The whole Notting Hill scenes are excellent, and look like a fabulous little place to live, the way its portrayed. The house with the blue door where William lives is real; it once belonged to Notting Hill screenwriter Richard Curtis. The blue door was auctioned at Christie's Film and Entertainment sale in London. Soon after, graffiti appeared on a wall close by saying something along the lines of "R.I.P. blue door" next to the new door. The house with the blue door used in the movie was sold the year following the release of the movie; the new door was painted black so that no one would recognize it. Someone later spray painted on the wall next to the door, This is the Hollywood door. A different house was used when Thacker and Anna are practicing her lines on the roof.
During the birthday dinner scene, Anna Scott is asked how much she made on her last film, and her reply is $15 million. This is the amount she (Julia Roberts) was paid for her role in Notting Hill.
Despite Thacker's protestations, it seems that his store does NOT just sell travel books. On the shelf in the background (visible clearly in a later scene where he is receiving the gift from Anna), there is a copy of Comics, Comix & Graphic Novels by Roger Sabin. (It's a big orange hardcover.)
The book William reads as he sits on the park bench at the end of the movie is Captain Corelli's Mandolin by Louis de BerniŹres. It was to be director Roger Michell's next film after Notting Hill, but he became seriously ill and had to be replaced by John Madden.
Thacker's bookshop is actually an antiques shop in real life, next to a butcher. One or two doors down from the butchers is an office for Richard Curtis' production company. The real Travel Bookshop had a sign in its window saying We're almost famous. It would sell non-travel books when it fitted in with a theme. For example, selling Martin Amis' London Fields when doing a Notting Hill theme.
Look out for Omid Djalili in a blink-and-you'll-miss-him-role playing the Cashier at the Coffee Shop (although uncredited) - he was filming The Mummy at the same time at the same studios so was conscripted to fill in the part, very conveniently. (He serves Hugh Grant the orange juice that he soon spills on Julia Roberts.)
The rooftop scene in which William and Anna practice her lines for the submarine movie was shortened and edited to remove some swearing from Anna that would have precluded a PG 13 rating. The extended scene is on the DVD.
As he explains in the published screenpley, in Richard Curtis's original conception of the story, Honey was not William's sister but a worker in the record store across from his bookshop and Anna's romantic rival for his affections. The film would have ended with William choosing her over the fantasy that Anna represented. Curtis decided that he could not just dismiss Anna, however, and so he made Honey into William's sister. This shows up quite a bit in the movie, as Honey & William seem to have a very strange relationship for brother & sister, as there still seems to be some of the leftover, romantic rival, stuff left in the movie.
Some of my favourite moments, apart from the obvious romantic bits, is the obvious jokes. The film manages to put Julia Roberts own life as an actress under the microscope. While her "Anna Scott" character isn't an autobiographical figure, the Scott character allows for some biting satire at the life of Julia herself. The excellent one liners in the film like the sister of Hugh Grant: "I feel like we are sisters", an excellent throw-back to "My Best Friend's Wedding" or a discussion about nude body doubles just before a nude Julia Roberts (or a Julia Roberts body double) crosses the screen. Also the talk about women's anatomy while they're looking all romantic in bed together is hilarious, and easily my favourite film quote of the moment. "What is it about men & nudity, huh? Particularly breasts. How can you be so interested in them? Seriously, they're just breasts. Every second person in the world has them. But they're odd looking. They're for milk. Your mother has them. You've seen a thousand of them. What's all the fuss about?"
The extras are your usual faff - there's a commentary by director Roger Michell, producer Duncan Kenworthy and writer Richard Curtis; Hugh Grant's Movie Tips; The Travel Book; deleted scenes and a Universal showcase.
This is an excellent movie, although don't be surprised if the man in your life refuses to watch it, simply because it's portrayed as a rom-com.
3 EXTENSIVELY AMAZING
i really love this film.It s my first dvd and it s a complete fun to romantic-comedy lovers.
The film is so sincere because it tells us the life.Life is full of miracles.It could happen next to us.
We cannot exist without dreams.After watching the film, i felt like i can do anything which i believe.
THAT 'S A FACT.
Watch it, i m sure you won't regret!
"The touch of your hand says you'll catch me whenever I fall"
4 Julia Roberts' Best Role Since Pretty Woman
There is a moment in Notting Hill when Julia Roberts, playing movie star Anna Scott, having found herself in the home of travel bookshop owner William Thacker (Hugh Grant) suddenly kisses him. And this is a hell of a kiss, folks, we're not taking a little peck here. Every time I saw this movie in the theatres, or have shown it on DVD to someone who hadn't seen it before, there's always been the same instant reaction: "Oh come ON." That just seems unbelievable to people. I bought it. Completely and in an instant. I guess that means I'm this movie's perfect audience.
I've heard the attitude from numerous people, "Oh, Julia Roberts plays the biggest female movie star in the world. What a stretch. She's just playing herself." They do her a disservice. Frankly I'm amazed Julia's performance in Notting Hill didn't get an least an Academy Award nomination. But then crowd pleasing romantic comedies aren't good Oscar bait. Or is that this woman has given us so much extraordinary work over the years we take her for granted? Watch the scene where Anna's talking to William in his bookshop, late in the film, trying to convince him to give her one more chance. Julia's totally believable as a woman hoping against hope she can salvage the best thing she's ever had in her life, even as she sees it slipping away. Admire the dignity, the barely concealed pain, as she realizes it's not going to happen. Truly, this is the work of a master actress at the height of her powers. During this scene Julia Roberts as Anna pulls you in, you're just dying inside right along with her.
Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant have immense onscreen chemistry. William is such a thoroughly decent guy, sweet and witty and charming though slightly bumbling, it's utterly believable Anna would respond to his genuineness. He's everything she's ever wanted in a man but never had. Not since Julia's turn in Pretty Woman with Richard Gere has she had a male co-star with which she's shared such perfect chemistry. Yeah, this is a mass appeal romantic comedy. And it does it very, very well. Notting Hill is on the short list of films I never tire of watching.
And in the end - as in Pretty Woman - the girl gets the guy for a wholly satisfying payoff.
5 Can I give it 6 Stars?
An outstanding romantic comedy, Notting Hill, brings to the screen the love story between an Englishman owner of a bookstore and an American movie star with all the ups and downs that that entails!
It is a film about human relations, hope and second chances, but most importantly about trust, love, and inner strength.
Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts, and the rest of the cast, have outdone themselves with their performances, which are exceptional to say the least, especially Rhys Ifans' character who as Spike, steals the show! All the actors, without exceptions, give it their 100% and it really shows (the chemistry is AMAZING)! Very well written and very well presented, the movie is without a doubt guaranteed to provide more than just a few laughs, not to mention a few tears. The film is simple enough, but does a great job of describing people's every day lives and the problems they face. It just goes to show that simplicity is often far better than complexity, when trying to present issues of a human nature.
The setting, the plot, the dialogues and the music are all wonderful!
In short, Notting Hill is a movie definitely worth watching and one to seriously consider adding to your movie collection!
6 Un lugar digno de visitar
Hay un lugar en Inglaterra donde al parecer los cuentos de hadas todav’a se hacen realidad: un lugar donde la actriz m‡s famosa de Hollywood, una diosa cuya cara aparece en todas las revistas, peri—dicos y pantallas de T.V. posibles, se enamorar‡ irracionalmente del due–o de una semi-quebrada librer’a, un simple y mortal inglŽs que la ver‡ entrar a su local y a su vida como una especie de sue–o m‡gico, demasiado bueno para ser verdad. Un lugar llamado Notting Hill.
Julia Roberts y Hugh Grant -como Anna Scott y William Thacker- se reunen por vez primera en esta encantadora cinta donde la sombra de la fama y la celebridad amenazan la posibilidad de una relaci—n feliz entre dos seres radicalmente diferentes, y sin embargo, hechizados el uno con el otro.
El desfile acosador de los periodistas no ayudar‡ a la pareja. El comportamiento afectado de los amigos de William tampoco, sin contar a su excŽntrico compa–ero de habitaci—n y la aparici—n repentina en escena del desagradable novio de Anna.
El peculiar humor inglŽs es explotado con Žxito en Notting Hill, a travŽs de escen‡s c‡lidas donde los amigos se reunen para compartir buenos y malos momentos. La iron’a, los contrastes de los personajes, las expectativas y la dura realidad son confrontados de forma directa, sin m‡scaras.
Hugh Grant acierta con la interpretaci—n de un hombre comśn, agradable y encantador en su propia y śnica manera; la misma que lo hizo famoso en "Cuatro Bodas y un Funeral". Est‡ perfectamente claro porque una megaestrella se enamorar’a de Žl. Con sutileza, William se las arregla para tratarla sin reconocer que sabe quiŽn es Anna Scott, mientras halla la manera de hacerle notar que s’ lo sabe.
Julia Roberts realiza una labor admirable d‡ndole vida a un personaje que se le asemeja mucho, al menos en lo que respecta a su estatus como celebridad. Teniendo la oportunidad de convertir este rol en una parodia de ella misma, opt— por crear una Anna Scott con ciertas similitudes a "Julia Roberts: actriz super famosa" pero a la vez diferente y no por eso menos cre’ble. Sabe como plasmar en pantalla ese "carisma" que hace a la gente congelarse de placer en su presencia, a la actriz eg—latra, temperamental y hastiada del acoso period’stico, a la vez que nos muestra "una chica que s—lo quiere ser amada".
La contribuci—n del reparto secundario ayuda a la narraci—n de la historia y la creaci—n de una perspectiva realista donde podemos imaginarnos perfectamente al mundo donde un Willian y una Anna se enamoren.
Divertida y m‡gica, con su elegante nostalgia, Notting Hill es un lugar que vale la pena visitar. No dejen de ir a este vecindario. No se arrepentir‡n.
7 Whoopsidaisies!
I first saw this film when it was released in May of 1999. I saw it as an instant love comedy classic combining the taste of Noel Coward as well as the subtle wit of Four Weddings and a Funeral. There was something original about this tale, something that just made the entire movie-going experience monumental. I was very impressed with both the talents of Hugh Grant, Julia Roberts, and newcomer (that would eventually make a name of his own) Rhys Ifans. I loved the modern fairy-tale story that Richard Curtis created (and would soon repeat again and again with success) and felt that the chemistry between Grant and Roberts could not have been done by anyone else. America's sweetheart coupled with Britain's poster-child was immaculate. This was a near perfect film that could be rediscovered again and again.
Sadly, I still haven't bought this film, but when my wife and I chose to rent it the other day, I was curious to see if the emotions and excitement that I felt when I initially watched it would survive in the year 2005. Sometimes films have this uncanny habit of becoming dated and musty with age. The jokes seem to be less funny, the characters seem old (because Hollywood may have recycled them in other films), and overall the film just feels like 1999. As I watched this film again, the first time in several years, it became obvious early on that it did not age in any way. The jokes still had me rolling around in my chair with laughter, the quirkiness of the characters still redefined Britain, and Julia Roberts still shined in one of her best roles to date. It was impressive to see how well preserved Curtis was able to keep this body of work.
The characters are what preserve this film so well. I do not think that Hollywood has ever recreated Rhys Ifan's Spike, and if it has it was not as memorable. Hugh Grant is an awesome screen presence with his quick tongue and insecure personality. I have always been a fan of Hugh Grant's work, and am constantly impressed with the resume he has built. Julia is, well, Julia. While some will argue that she plays the same character over and over again, I would have to agree. She is a typecast character, but in Notting Hill it works. She is supposed to play herself, and she pulls it off with the greatest of ease. I did not see this film as a stretch for Julia, but an opportunity to show the world what Grant has to offer. He successfully built this multi-dimensional character that believed in love so deeply that once it was given to someone, it could never be taken back. You don't see that sort of theme in the cinema today. Even the cheesy "boy and girl" line was not as bad as other films. I thought that it fit perfectly and gave Grant a reason to continue. Nothing could be as bad as "You had me at Hello". To see a cheesy romantic comedy last through time is due to the work of Richard Curtis' screenplay and some amazing (yet simple ...which is why this film works so well) direction of Roger Michell.
Overall, I felt the story was bold and imaginative. The characters were played with so much respect and dedication that it felt almost real. It was a love story that has lasted the test of time due to the huge talent and simplistic themes. I laughed through this film again in 2005 just as hard as I did in 1999. That says something about a film if it can still evoke the same emotion nearly six years later. I am impressed with this movie, and with everyone involved. Go see it if you haven't yet, I know you will not be disappointed.
Whoopsidaisies!
Grade: ***** out of *****
8 Clearly the best romatic comedy in years
I am a woman who loves mysteries and thrillers, yet I found this movie extremely enjoyable. I would not have chosen to watch it had I not been on an airplane at the time and it was the only option. I am so glad I did! I have watched it many times and still enjoy the smart dialogue and the cast of zany characters. The roommate is the best! Even if you don't normally like romantic comedies, take a chance and watch this one. I am pretty sure you will have a good time and want to watch it again.
9 Julia Roberts is overhyped
Would have done better if they had used another actress besides Julia Roberts. She can't act. Has anyone else noticed that she's the same character in every movie she acts in.
10 Yuck, Oh and Also Dumb
Boring. Why is this a chick flick? This chick don't like it. But the roommate was a gas. Apparently Julia Roberts is so popular Hollywood would put her in anything vaguely resembling a story in hopes of making a profit. Do yourself a favor and don't see this one.
11 Heart-warming!
Julia Roberts is at her vulnerable best as a star who falls in love with a bookstore owner (Hugh Grant). Truly romantic and at times funny!
12 Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant Do "Love Is Nice" Very Well
There are currently four contenders in films vying for the title of "Mr./Ms. Romantic Comedy:" in no particular order, Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Julia Roberts, and Hugh Grant. Each of these actors appears to wear the trappings of the genre impeccably, and seeing them on-screen in these roles is almost always a pleasure.
"Notting Hill" brings together Mr. Grant and Ms. Roberts, and does so quite well. Grant plays his traditional hesitant-yet-charmingly-romantic self, which he perfected in his earlier collaboration with director Roger Hill, "Four Weddings and a Funeral." Roberts essentially plays her own popular image -- a hugely successful world-famous actress who's really just the girl next door. Through a "meet-cute" (trademark Roger Ebert) involving some spilt orange juice and bad travel books, Grant and Roberts begin a long-drawn out courtship.
"Notting Hill," like so many of the great romantic comedies, takes its time with its characters, allowing them to grow and mature over several months. Roberts spends a great amount of time off-screen, as the movie is centered more on Grant's character -- giving us plenty of time to meet Grant's circle of charmingly eccentric-yet-believable friends. But Roberts is always a presence in the film, and Grant convincingly conveys his preoccupation with "the American" even when she's not around.
The film is also sensitive to the "harsh realities" of Roberts' character, and we do see some of the down-side of being an ultra-successful actress (the media-driven relationship with the Bad Boyfriend, the hounding photographers, the lechery of the general public). And refreshingly, Roberts does not handle every bump in the road with class and grace, but shows a temper and some humanizing flaws.
You'll note that I don't use character names for Grant and Roberts - that's intentional, because the film really wants you to see Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts get together and does not require either actor to deviate at all from their popular images. The movie wants you to love these familiar characters, and for the most part you can't help yourself from doing so.
The only problem with the movie is the soundtrack, which suffers from over-planning. "Notting Hill" is far from a subtle film -- anyone who doubts whether Grant and Roberts will end up together is obviously seeing his or her first romantic comedy -- but many of the songs on the soundtrack just pummel the viewers with their lyrics ("Ain't so sunshine when she's gone" is a fine song, but it's a little on the nose as used in the film). A little restraint here would have helped a great deal.
Perhaps suffering a bit because both Grant and Roberts have such a solid track record in this genre, "Notting Hill" does not offer great surprises, but it does offer a very enjoyable two hours. A solid entry into any romantic's film library!
The extras on the DVD are fine, but the movie's the reason to pick up this one, not the extras.
13 GLORIOUS ROMANTIC COMEDY
One of the biggest box office smashes of 1999 and considered to be one of the best romantic comedies of the last TWO decades. In roles that earned Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant Golden Globe nominations, they give some of their best work to date. Only the lazy, would be able to say Roberts is just "playing herself." Just more oridinary folks thinking that they "know" a celebrity because they read about them in a magazine and watch their movies. In fact, she's playing a character and playing each note really well. With the most radiant smile and a laugh to cherish - she is a true MOVIESTAR (a word used way too much). In this film she's vulnerable & tough, funny & sweet, selfish and selfless. From her that moment at the dinner table as she fights for her brownie, to the moment where she proclaims her love to Grant telling him "she's just a girl standing in front of a boy..." to her anger over the invasion that one celebrity of her stature receives. It is a glorious performance. Entertainment Weekly said she should be considered for an Oscar nomination - I agree. The movie gives ROMANTIC COMEDIES a good name.
14 Chick Flick
I was forced to watch this movie by a woman who basically got me in a headlock. Watch Hugh Grant? Are you kidding? That's almost as bad as being forced to listen to Michael Bolton. Having established my masculine credentials as to the quasi-nancy-boysism of Grant, I can now say this actually is a pretty funny movie. I'm no fan of Julia Roberts, either, but even she's actually appealing here. The rest of the cast verges on stealing the movie, especially Grant's slob of a roommate, who wears T-shirts with "Get it here" on the front, with an
arrow pointing toward his naughty parts. Grant's family is pretty funny, too, especially his sister, who complains her "bosums" are shrinking, and that she has "buggy, googly eyes." Which she does. The movie is a complete fantasy--owner of a bookstore has a famous actress walk into his shop and fall in love with him--but even so, it's a cute, attractive film. And if all the guys can get past Grant, it's very much seeing as a light, romantic comedy.
15 zzzzzzzz Oh Okay I'm awake.......zzzzzzzzzzz Yeah Ok...zzz
I would like to say that I agree with some of the previous reviewers on this forum that Julia Roberts is not much of an actress. Just a pretty face. I rented this and went into it with a open mind. I haven't seen Julia Roberts in any other movies. This is the first. Julia Roberts did not add anything to the part. Hugh Grant was okay. I haven't seen him in any other movies either. So this was a first for me to see him. Now, as for the film. The story was pretty much bland and it was difficult to hold my interest. The film is very much a boy meets girl/ boy loses girl etc.... and you're basic light, fluff love story. The only humorous portion was Hugh Grant's slob/eccentric roommate and even that was only mildly funny. From what I understand, this is the formula film that Roberts generally is in and she does not change much from that formula. There is not any pretty scenery, vistas or even witty/clever dialogue. I think women would enjoy this film more than men. After watching it, you come away from it feeling like you haven't watched anything of substance. The film does touch on the difficulties that Roberts (who plays a famous movie star) has being famous and contending with the press and gossip in the London newspapers. I think most people would be satisfied to watch this film once and leave it at that. Others might really find it a waste of their time, while I know some people will turn it off after 15 minutes. It's not the worst film I have seen, but it is far, far below the standards of a really good film. I wouldn't recommend this as a film to keep in your DVD library. It is a toss away film. Not bad, just sub-standard all the way around. (I don't see what all the fuss is about regarding Julia Roberts as an actress. I see just a pretty face. There's a lot of prettier women out there in the real world). Two stars folks.
16 dissapointed
The movie is ok for watching once.. so rent if you want to see it first.. but not one i'd watch again. nothing really captivating in this movie. why julia in this movie was interested in grants character is beyond me... she barely knew the guy except for a few things... his apartment is a mess and he has some freaky roomate that would have scared me off.. i can sympathize with her situation and sort of see movie stars life in a new light.. but then again being rich and famous has a lot of other pleasures i'm sure! and this movie makes it seem like shes plain miserable. anyway, this movie was slightly boring. i like roberts and grant as actors.. i just didnt see the real attraction between them no matter how hard they tried... there was no moments in this movie that would have made them very close therefore not moving to me.. this one isnt a keeper in my opinion.
17 Well- at least this time she's in the right role
I've been waiting forever for a critic or reviewer to expose Julia Roberts for what she is- a talentless, over-estimated, freak of nature--- but the culture is so heady with celebrity buzz that it will never happen. So I'll have to take matters into my own hands:
Roberts has been getting away with simply playing variations of herself since the days of Mystic Pizza. Her same shrill laugh (it's actually a barking shout)can be heard in any one of those forgettable roles from Flatliners to the Pelican Brief, and the academy-award-winning Brokovich character was Roberts again, only this time dressed like a trailer park refugee and spouting a little more anger and sarcasm than she normally does. God help us- Pretty Woman was such a smash that we'll never be rid of her. Unfortunately, when not playing one of those personal variations, she's lost because she honestly can't act. Take a look at her poor attempt in Michael Collins, and there you'll find someone out of her depth. The role was not difficult, just not a variation of herself (am I getting redundant?)
Somehow, though, her limits serve her well in Nottinghill: According to a professional reviewer, "True, Roberts doesn't really have to stretch very far to play a big-time actress who makes $15 million per movie . . ." Well, that nails it, doesn't it? For once, Roberts can be forgiven for being herself, because that's what the role calls for: a famous, over-paid, self-consumed, Hollywood celebrity. But as well-cast as Julia is here, even she can't resist going over the top on occasion, as in the scene where one of Grant's friends, who meets her for the first time, discovers she's an actress and comments that it's a tough occupation in which to make a living. Our girl enjoys her response entirely too much when he asks what she got paid for her last work. Then again--- I guess I can see her gloating in the same self-satisfied manner in real life, so it's probably appropriate. In contrast to this kind of affirmation, however, notice how Alec Baldwin's cameo portrayl of the male star counterpart later in the film is more tongue in cheek.
The script of this movie contains wit, and the scenes can be charming with more than a few entertaining moments. Enjoyable though it may be at times (that despite the over-used romantic comedy formula)the film is nonetheless and ultimately doomed by its fairy tale ending. It just wouldn't have happened this way, no matter what we want to believe. Had the scenario allowed Grant to meet simply a common, ordinary girl, it would have worked much better. Then his believable performance and the equally strong ones turned in by his supporting cast would have made more sense. Of course, Roberts would then have to be cut from the film as well (remember-she can only do herself). The way it is, even though Nottinghill is not a disaster, it doesn't quite make the grade. Save it for when you've run out of all the other "date-movies" at your disposal.
18 A Funny British/American Comedy
I personally do not think that Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant are the absolute perfect on screen power couple. The movie however is sweet and will definately be remembered as a romantic comedy classic. The acting is good but like I said I just didn't buy the on screen chemistry. The story is a brilliant concept escpecially in today's society. The music is good and there is good ol' British comedy that gives the audience comic relief. This is a very good date movie and it is one of Julia's and Hugh's best films. I reccomend it.
19 Nothing Special
A by-the-numbers romantic comedy, "Notting Hill" is however one of the most overrated movies of its genre. Sure, the lead stars (Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts) have some charisma, Roger Michell`s directing is smooth and subtle, the story has a couple of funny scenes and most of the (very british) cast delivers highly convincing performances. Still, this modern fairy tale about a love relationship between a movie star and an ordinary, middle class guy is not only unrealistic but also almost 100% predictable and unsurprising. The plot shows little original ideas, offering a set of cliches and "been there, done that" situations. "Notting Hill" is definitely a well made, professional product nonetheless, yet the overall result doesn`t rise above average and uninspired material, a rehash of old ideas and concepts. It`s an alright saturday-afternoon innofensive flick, providing a mildly entertaining cinematic experience that helps to pass the time. A competent Hollywood piece of fluff, but very far from a classic achievement.
An ordinary feel-good movie.
20 Great Acting
I judge movies by how real the actors make the events on screen seem real. Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant did a great job with this movie. I actually felt like I was watching THE REAL THING! The filming, the cast, and the storyline are perfect; just the right touch of humor, the right touch of drama...great job by everyone around them, too!
I'd have given it six stars, but that wasn't an option. Buy this movie! It's great.
G.B.
www.therunninggirl.com
21 A Brilliant Romantic Comedy
After watching a recent but not great romantic comedy, I watched NOTTING HILL to clean my palate. It tasted so good. So refreshing. It is one of the best romantic comedies of the last 10 years. It is, in fact, brilliant.
The lead actors are Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant. Roberts plays a movie star, Anna Scott, trapped by the gilded cage of her own stardom. She is plays it uptight and bitchy. She's not very happy and that makes her bitchy. So if you don't like her, well heck, she did it well, didn't she? She also plays it a bit reserved, shy, which is probably how most performers are underneath their stardoms. Then there is Hugh Grant. He plays William Thacker, charming "average bloke" who owns a travel bookshop. Now nobody can play charming like Hugh Grant. He can play a charming rogue, charming cad, and a charming average bloke as he does here. Grant could probably charm the pants off a turnip, which is, something if you think about it. (I am sure there's a charming serial killer psychopath in Grant's future, so I look forward to the day of Hannibal, Jr.).
The supporting cast members play a motley bunch of quirky characters, Will's friends and family. They are all wonder, especially the actor who plays Will's flatmate. But most important of all, they are all integrated in the plot. They're not just standing about doing nothing.
The writing by Richard Curtis is brilliant and funny. Very funny. I mean really funny. Not forced funny. The actors delivered it perfectly. The directing was great. There is a scene where Will is dejected because Anna has rejected him. He walks through the scenery of Notting Hill as the seasons change. He's in the same clothing. We see a woman who is pregnant woman at the beginning of this and the same woman with a child at the end. It was a clever and perfect way to show time passing by as Will wallows in his depression.
I liked most of the music except the one called She. It was a bit strident and maudlin and yet strangely like a soap commercial. That's probably my only complaint.
The dvd includes a funny featurette by Grant and deleted scenes. The flatmate is even funny as all get out in those.
So if you want to watch a clever, witty, charming modern day fairy tale where the princess (movie star) marries the tradesman (bookstore owner) than NOTTING HILL is the film to watch. Buy it and watch it over and over again.
22 A different kind of love story
It's kind of a movie that makes you wanna watch it over and over.
23 Gentle Wit, Warmth, & Charm, Terrific Ensemble Cast
My wife paid top dollar for this DVD when it was released, and I greeted it with contempt and dismay. I hadn't seen it, of course--but I had seen trailers promoting the corny contemporary inverted-gender Cinderella story in a tawdry attempt to cash in on the box-office appeal of stars Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts. Grudgingly agreeing to suffer through it for the sake of marital harmony, I soon discovered I'd been guilty again of contempt prior to investigation. Since then it has become one of my favorite movies. Perhaps even more surprisingly, it's become one of our teenaged boys' favorites as well, judging from the number of times they've seen it.
NOTTING HILL is a superb example of a movie with high Replay Value. Despite seeing it a dozen or so times over the past few years--most recently last night at the request of a dinner guest--it never fails to entertain. Credit, of course, goes largely to the writer, Richard Curtis, a modern master of the Romantic Comedy genre (FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL, BRIDGET JONES'S DIARY, LOVE ACTUALLY), for infusing the script with gentle wit and charm. But the ensemble cast deserves equal praise for fleshing out Curtis's characters with so much warmth and decency that they become precisely the sort of people we enjoy spending time with. Tim McInnery, Gina McKee, Emma Chambers, Hugh Bonneville, James Dreyfus, and especially Rhys Ifans make this movie special, in much the same way that the terrific ensemble cast made FOUR WEDDINGS so enjoyable before.
If you appreciate the warmth, wit, and maturity of movies such as IQ, NOBODY'S FOOL, and SENSE & SENSIBILITY, and require something more interesting than fiery explosions and flesh-eating zombies to feel entertained, then NOTTING HILL might be for you. Four stars for the overall quality of the film, plus one star more for its surprising high replay value.
24 Will Surely Be a Favorite
This is one my favorite movies. Hugh Grant is always adorable in his aimless Hugh Grant sort of way. And Roberts always delivers because, hello, she's Julia Roberts.
Grant plays William Thacker, a travel bookshop owner and admirer of actress Anna Scott (Roberts). As luck would have it, Anna pops into his little shop one day, where they have a funny little interlude, which leads to another funny interlude that involves orange juice, and soon enough, both are completely smitten with one another.
This movie is so gentle and flows along at a perfect pace. It's one of those movies where you want to sit on the couch and eat bon bons and dream of the day when you'll meet and fall in love with a movie star. The dialogue is great, each character is engaging, which makes for a great movie. And, oh yeah, Mischa Barton (from that new show THE O.C.) has a small role in this... just thought I'd pass that along.
BOTTOM LINE- JUST SEE THIS MOVIE! IT DESERVES YOUR ATTENTION!!!
25 Very Funny
William Thacker is an English Man living in Notting Hill. He runs a travel bookstore. He has some friends and his sister, but since his wife left him for a man he claims looks exactly like Harrison Ford his life has been boring. Then one day things start to change.
Anna Scott just happens to be in London doing a movie and stops into Williams bookstore to look around. After spilling orange juice on her shirt things start to heat up between the two of them with the help of Williams flatmate Spike until he realizes that there is no way that the two of them can be together because he lives in Notting Hill she lives in Beverly Hills, she is world famous and sometimes his mother does not even know his name.
What happens between the two of them? Get Notting Hill and watch to see what happens
26 The slob of a roommate nearly steals the show
Ask people if they've seen Notting Hill, and most of them say, 'The one with Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts? The one with that roommate from hell who answers the door in his skivvies and then postures for the paparazzi? That one? Yeah, sure. Who WAS that guy, anyway?' He's Rhys Ifans, and he damn near steals the movie. Each time he's on the screen, he's the only one you watch, just to see what gauche and disgusting stunt he's going to come up with next.
But the movie, the movie...
They don't really make romantic comedies like this anymore, pure fairy tale with more than a few deep bows of gratitude to Roman Holiday. The setup is that a very famous actress stumbles into a London bookseller and she and the bookstore owner fall in love. But there's this huge difference in lifestyle. Can love triumph? Well, duh...
The movie is fluff, pure fantasy, and it requires a huge suspension of belief - but it's wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. See it with someone you love and just sit back and enjoy a great evening.
27 HUGH GRANT & JULIA ROBERTS 10 STARS!!
Anybody who has seen this romantic comedy obviously knows how great of a movie this is. I really liked Hugh Grants roomate (VERY FUNNY) This movie can be watched anytime of the year. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU RENT THIS DVD OR BUY IT FOR UNDER 10 BUCKS!!
28 Imagine my surprise!!
The movie was quite entertaining. I've become a real fan of Julia Roberts...but 'Pretty Woman' was her best, IMO. The Surprise for me was when Hugh Grant held up a book about Turkey (Istanbul, the Imperial City by John Freely) for Julia to look at....I illustrated a section of that book!!! I almost fell off my chair!!! It's available from Amazon!!!
29 Priceless!
This is quite simply one of my favorite films. Notting HIll creates a totally appealing microcosm of an environment that makes you want to live there too, and be part of the neigborhood. There is an assortment of lovable and charming characters, particularly Hugh Grant's roommate Spike, who almost steals the film. Julia Roberts is not actually at her most appealing, yet she plays the role of the aloof film star quite well. Although most events in the movie are fairly predictible, the charm is undeniable and this is a film I watch over and over with equal pleasure each time. Notting Hill is a place I like to visit from time to time. It leaves you with a warm and fuzzy feeling, and never fails to cheer you up!
30 Nothing Hill
This was by far one of the worst romantic comedies that I can remember, and believe me I wish I could forget it. Although the movie has two talented actors in Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant, the story if flat and uninvolving. I never forged a bond with Julia's character and thought that Hugh should have dumped her very early in the movie so he would be better off and the movie could have ended. Please avoid this movie.
31 EXCELLENT
What a refreshing romance comedy! Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant are superb. But the supporting cast really gives it everything. They make the movie so much more enjoyable. It gives you a warm fuzzy feeling.
32 Movie to take you from the blues
This movie will pull you from the depths and put a smile on your face. The supporting cast is what brings humor and reality to this movie. I love the book store employee and his droning on about Ringo Starr. Or the quirky sister. I saw this movie when it first came out with a friend, then dragged dh to it the next day. He laughed just as much as I did.
Not your normal love/comedy. Bravo to the supporting characters!!
33 notting hill a great film
In my opinion, I believe Julia Roberts is a natural and she is a great actor, even though some people disagree. I read the web site and a girl had a different oppinion about Julia Roberts. She believes Julia Roberts is not a good actor. To me Julia Roberts is a natural. She is different from other actors. She dosen't need make up, or other things on her to look nice. I've seen all Julia's movie's and she acts good in all of them. The best films were Pretty Woman, Notting Hill, and My Bes Friend's Wedding. I would like to add that I admire Julia Roberts because she plays many different rolls...
34 I do not understand why people like this movie.
Notting Hill is a horrible movie. Long, boring, completely unrealistic! This pacing is slow, the performances lackluster, the chemistry NONEXISTENT! The music, however, has to be the worst part of this really, really, really bad movie. I wouldn't wish this movie on my worst enemy.
35 Love this movie
I've seen this movie before on rental and completely recommend it. It has one of those hard hitting romantic endings like Pretty Woman, You've Got Mail and Random Harvest.
Though I don't recommend you buy it from Amazon. I received this movie along with several others from Amazon in a $364 order and it doesn't play. The other movies in this order play just fine but not this one. Over the years, I bought many books and tapes for myself and for others as gifts, and this is the first time I've had a complaint with Amazon.
Looking through Amazon's return page and policy tells me that if the dvd was opened, I can't return it. And then the return pages proceed to take me around in circles. Of course, the dvd has been opened, how else was I to find it won't play? I looked around for a phone number to discuss this with Amazon, but I could not find one.
36 About a girl, asking a boy to love her.
Hugh Grant's role as Travel Book Shop employee William Thacker reprises the same shy, humble, lovable, but lonely character with a small group of friends that made him a star in Four Weddings And A Funeral. That may be because Notting Hill, like FW&AF, was written by Richard Curtis. "And so it was another hopeless Wednesday when I walked a thousand yards to work, not suspecting that this was going to be the day my life would be changed forever." In two words, that catalyst is Anna Scott, currently one of Hollywood's biggest stars, who is promoting her latest film Helix, a sci-fi film whose costume design and one interior setting owes a nod to Kubrick's 2001. She happens in his bookshop, but that first meeting sets off a series of meetings where they spend time with each other.
Eccentric barely describes Spike, his Welsh roommate with a shock of wild blond hair. Never have I seen a more comical opposites since Felix and Oscar of the Odd Couple. Spike is clearly the Oscar of the pair, but then again, I doubt if Oscar would have worn a T-shirt saying, "Get It Here", with an arrow pointing downwards, or unwittingly mistake mayonnaise for yogurt.
In the course of meeting Anna, he in turn introduces her to his small group, including a married couple, Max and Belle, the latter in a wheelchair, a stockbroker named Bernie, and William's wild-looking sister Honey, whose bulging eyes and feathery hair makes her nevertheless lovable in a different sort of way.
However, they live in two different worlds. As William puts it, "I live in Notting Hill, you live in Beverly Hills." Both have different schedules, lifestyles, and perspectives on things. Yet his inner smile lights up whenever she pops in and spends some time with him. And applying a metaphor used, Anna is a goddess. "You know what happens to mortals who get involved with the gods?" That's terrible for William, who confides in Spike that it's like "taking love heroin and I couldn't have it again. I've opened Pandora's Box and there's trouble inside."
Anna is a typical box-office draw who has to put up with the tail side of the fame coin. The many boyfriends, the laying out of her private life in the tabloids, but also how she's unable to live an ordinary life and how she has to put up with unkind words, as when she overhears a group of businessmen saying how actresses are equal to prostitutes and that she is the definitive actress. Ouch! But despite the fame, in the end, she's "just a girl asking a boy to love her."
The one pullback aerial shot that has the couple approaching the bench dedicated to a loved one, while Ronan Keating sings Keith Whitley's "When You Say Nothing At All" was a perfect combination of great camera work enhanced by a haunting love song.
Hugh Grant has another winning role and seems to have the knack of starring opposite great female leads and being compatible. Be it Andie McDowell (Four Weddings) or Emma Thompson (Sense And Sensibility), he does himself and Julia Roberts great credit. After seeing this at the theatre when it first came out, I sighed with relief that I finally found the most charming movie with Julia Roberts since Pretty Woman. All the actors portraying Williams' small circle also lend great support, but Rhys Ifan steals the show as the outlandish Spike. Those who liked Four Weddings will definitely go for Notting Hill, which has a tad more sweetness, like apricot and honey.
37 Julia Roberts' best work by far
I am not a Julia Roberts fan. I don't think she is a great actress, and I don't find her particularly attractive. I usually don't like her movies because I don't think she is effective. "The Pelican Brief" and "My Best Friend's Wedding" would have been much better without Julia as the lead actress.
However, she is great here, even if it is Hugh Grant who makes the movie go. This movie is smart, romantic, and quite touching. Grant is the owner of a small travel bookstore who meets Roberts (playing a movie icon) when she comes in to shop. Throughout the movie, they hook up, and split up a couple of times, mostly on Julia's whims.
What makes the movie, is the characters. Roberts is not as shallow and transparent as usual. Grant is funny, especially since the movie is shot in his native England. The various British accents make the movie lots of fun to see. Rhys Ifans as the slovenly roommate of Grant is a hoot and steals each scene he's in. I also loved Grant's sister, and the birthday party scene where Grant shows up with Roberts is a classic.
The plot is no surprise, but the characters and the dialogue make this a great movie to watch. If you are a fan of Julia's, you must see this. If not, the other characters in the film should help, especially since they are relative unknowns and I found that to be refreshing.
38 priceless
I really enjoyed this film no matter what other may say. This film has everything, sad parts, funny parts. It's about two people who meet and fall in love but somehow can't find themselves being together. A true boy meets girl, boy falls in love, girl is too scared of what other may think and runs but comes back in the end. I love the other characters in this film so much and make this film so enjoyable, like his weird sister, or his roommate who is a complete moron but is so hiliarious!!
39 Is Notting Hill really boring?
Maybe we often say, "This movie is boring," or "That's the worst movie I've ever watched," or "That's nothing. I don't like it!", or "The actor or actress is like an amateur," to a movie, including this one. But when we think it again and again, we will realize that most of our lives are often more boring than that movie. If a movie director make a movie about our daily lives just the way they are, for example, maybe the audiences will say that the movie of our lives is more boring than the most boring movie.
Take this movie, Notting Hill, for example. Imagine that you have your own little bookstore in a small town and suddenly, out of nowhere, your favorite movie star or artist drops in and build a more than usual relationship with you. We can't say that it happens everyday in your life unless - maybe - if you open a store in the middle of Hollywood. Furthermore, the actor/actress trusts you as a best friend and even a very special friend. It's a lie if you say that it's just an ordinary occasion. You'll try the best shot you have, try to make him or her feel comfortable near you but at the same time, you're not so sure whether it's a reality or just a fairy tale. You want to show him or her the real you but you're worried that it maybe will change his or her mind about you. It's not an ordinary boring life, isn't it? And the relationship are getting closer and closer, through the sweetest days and heaviest storms, both of you are falling in love to each other, but your pride says that it's impossible. Is it a boring life? Even, when she or he says, "I'm just a girl/boy in front of a boy/girl and I ask you to love me," can you still say that it's boring? Watch carefully when William swallows his pride and tries hard to stop Anna for leaving him for home. Watch carefully when William asks Anna to stay because he finally realizes that both of them are unseparatable. Can you say that it's boring? Even, it (very) rarely happens in the middle of Hollywood, a famous star found a TRUE love in an ordinary person and decide to live happily ever after together. You can't say it's boring! Just imagine Pierce Brosnan holds you tight or Julia Roberts sits on your lap and he/she says that he/she has found a true love in you, you'll probably say that you're blessed!
One more, this movie gives a message that even a famous star or artist is just an ordinary person. She/he needs a privacy just like us, needs her/his peaceful life, need to be respected and to respect, and all things that an ordinary person, just like you and me, needs. So, give respects if we want to be respected by others.
Finally, before you judge that a movie is boring, compare it to your own life. Be cautious, it's possible that your life is more boring than it. However, if you know well, and your friends or neighbors confirm that your life is extraordinary and better than the movie, you may say that a movie is boring than your life.
40 ugh....I can't believe people like this movie!
Julia [is unacceptable] (as always), Hugh Grant plays the same bumbling but charming idiot he plays in every movie... SO predictable! There is no need for a love story to be soooo sappy and predictable! See Untamed Heart or Inventing the Abbotts for good love stories with an acceptable dose of sappiness and a LOT more reality. See Natural Born Killers or True Romance for my kinda love stories...!
41 Witty romantic-comedy is good despite Roberts...
I saw this movie for Hugh Grant. I thought it was funny, light-hearted, and a good feel-good love story for pretty much everybody. Heck, even Julia Roberts, who I loath with a passion, wasn't too bad. The plot is your standard modern-day fairy tale. Average Joe (or Hugh, in this case) meets big-name celebrity, hits it off with her, and soon falls in love. The plot is predictable, but original nonetheless. I really liked Will's (Hugh Grant) friends and family, who are all humorous in their own ways. I laughed out loud many times, especially at a scene in which Will is pretending to be a reporter for a magazine called "Horses and Hounds." When he asks the actress a question about horses in her film "Helix," she graciously reminds him the movie is set in space. The humor is very subtle and that's why it works so well. "Notting Hill" isn't a movie for everybody. If you're looking for a gunfight atop a speeding train while a stinger missile is headed right for the hero's head, you might want to miss this one. But if you're of the female gender, or a guy who wants to be fair to his date but entertained at the same time, "Notting Hill" just might be the film you're looking for. Unless your date wants to see a noseless giant slashing helpless high school cheerleaders with a machette. If that's the case, could I have her number? Just asking.
42 Fine, very fine romantic comedy
Despite being overexposed to the Julia Roberts phenomenon, I think this was a safe but very wise choice on her part, to pair off with Hugh Grant in this glossy little charmer. She has never been more attractive, yet her role is not far off the mark in real life, as opposed to Hugh, who in real life gets to screw some of the most incredible women in existence at the drop of a hat. I enjoyed Four Weddings very much as well, but I tend to like this more. The circle of friends and urban setting are very appealing, and seeing Hugh on his home turf helps us forget that despite his riches he still had to troll for the best in life on Sunset Strip. Women of the world take note.
43 A true romantic.
This is a great movie.Both characters has great chemistry and Julia Roberts is stunning. You won't be disappointed!
44 Behold, The Grandaddy of ALL Contemporary Romantic Comedies!
This movie clearly exemplifies why Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts were at the top of their game for so many years. It's not just a chick flick-- guys can get into this too!! It's an intelligent film with wonderful character development and lots of light-hearted fun as these two actors are always good at pulling off. I really want to see this pair together again someday!
45 Enchanting
Notting Hill is a stunning romantic comedy that you can watch many times over. Julia Roberts is perfect as Anna Scott, the charming, gorgeous celebrity who encounters Hugh Grant's character, William Thacker. Comic relief is provided by both charismatic actors, as well as William's roommate, Spike. The story flows smoothly without being bogged down in unecessary scenes, such as flashbacks or the like. The plot is solid and filled with warmth, heart and extreme wit that is well built upon by the wonderful cast.
The DVD version is wonderful for any fan with several funny deleted scenes, insightful commentaries and an even a map of the charming English area of Notting Hill.
46 A real Charmer
I usually don't watch romantic comedies (I have yet still to see "When Harry Met Sally") but "Notting Hill" surprised me. It stars two well oiled veterans of the genre, Hugh Grant (William Thacker) and Julia Roberts (Anna Scott), as chance lovers who meet in Grant's book store. From there they forge, or at least try, a relationship amid Julia Robert's star status a a world famous movie star. they go on again, off again, but screenwriter Richard Curtis has you hoping with all your might that they might become a permanent couple someday. But that is easier said than done, as Roberts at times is more worried about her career, and Grant is at times befuddled with the love he's found. This all leads to an emotionally wrenching ending when Grant and Roberts are at their most nuanced onscreen.
But, this is a comedy right, and most of the relief from the love story comes from Ryes Ifans, who plays Grants' slacker roommate, and finds Roberts naked in the bathtub among other things. It also should be said that a story like this in real life would probably never happen, and the movie loses points on realism, but the storytelling is so fluid and the acting so nuanced, you will not mind.
47 fantacular
In some way, you will relate to this movie. It's "an absolute classic".
48 The best Romantic Comedy ever...
Simply the best romantic romedy ever made... Julia Robert is amazing...
49 DVD
Brings back memories of my trip to London. Loved this movie so much I had to purchase it.
50 you've seen one you've seen them all
Any movie with Hugh Grant in it is half way decent, so I guess I have to say the same for the movie. Grant plays his hopelessly in love character to the core, and Julia Roberts plays her role perfectly since she basically is who she plays. There are some touching moments in the film, and a few funny ones as well, but it doesn't strike a chord. Perhaps because the plot is too much like other romantic comedies, or maybe it's Grant's vulgar roommate "Spike", who draws attention away from the story. But if you like typical romantic comedies, then you might as well see this one too.
51 Soporific
Back in the days before his cad performance in "Bridget Jones' Diary" and his dead-on showing in "About a Boy," Hugh Grant was known for a sort of mumbling, genial diffidence and for his tousled locks. He'd stammer a line or two, look out from under a waft of carefully casual hair... and a series of romantic comedies' heroines fell for his charms.
By the time "Notting Hill" was made, that routine had grown awfully, awfully tired.
It's inevitable that Grant eventually got paired with Julia Roberts, isn't it? For a while there, if you had a "meet cute" sort of a romantic movie, they were your choices. Oddly enough they have no chemistry together here. The two of them, I swear, sleepwalk through this entire relationship. Their lines are delivered with a sort of dead weight behind them that you've never sat through before. When they meet, when they're infatuated, when they argue... it's all so sedated you feel like shaking someone. Seriously -- the seduction scene(s) in this movie are an tiring to witness as can be. Even the characters seem to know it: Julia considers the fuzz on other men's behinds in the midst of being seduced, here, and she does so in a sort of muffled trance. Yawn.
Not that there isn't some stuff here to like, if you happen to see it on cable. The Greek chorus of odd friends for the main character is somewhat more fun than in the other 15 romantic comedies you've seen lately. (Well, Julia does not receive her allotted one [1] gay male confidant, but Hugh's troupe makes out okay.) The sense that the movie's set in a local neighborhood -- a sort of everyperson's-life-as-a-movie-set thing -- has its charms, though aside from a couple of "time passing" transitional scenes, the movie doesn't have that idea on its mind much. I guess the title reflects it, too, but it's not what you'd call a theme, even.
But jeez, for a romantic comedy, this had no chemistry and essentially nothing funny from either of the main characters. The closest thing to a smile from them was Julia's movie star trying to memorize lines for an awful action adventure movie. The supporting roles have their moments, but how are you supposed to stay awake for the movie when the main characters are barely holding on themselves? I ask you.
Grant, meanwhile, obviously reacted to this by heading off to "Bridget Jones" and "About a Boy." He woke himself up.
52 Great Soundtrack! Good movie!
Hugh Grant is wonderful! Julia just "so-so". I loved the movie - the soundtrack alone is worth the price. Recommend both to everyone!
53 on of the best movies ever
I first saw this movie on tv and loved it after looking in stors I finaly found a copy. This is a cute mivie about finding your true love. It had a funny cast and Hugh Grant is wonderful in this movie. I think its his best yet. Julia Roberts is all right in this movie but it is manely about Hugh.
54 How did I go so long with out seeing this?
After watching this movie I only had one question for myself: "How did I go so long with out seeing this?" The movie made me laugh, made me cry, and made my jump for joy. I don't think I have seen a movie that brings you through as many emotions as this one does, and lets you off at the top of the roller coaster. This movie set me flying as much the second time I watched it as the first. I'm glad it is now part of my collection, and I strongly recommend that everyone else get a copy and keep it close to your VCR.
55 Amiable and sweet-natured
For screenwriter Richard Curtis' follow-up to the unexpected success of Four Weddings and a Funeral, he had to capitalise by importing big name star Julia Roberts. Whilst he does this, the result is nowhere near as personable as the excellent Four Weddings or the later Bridget Jones' Diary, despite it being probably the best romantic comedy of 1999. The story has poor bookshop owner William Thacker (Grant) meeting famous actress Anna Scott (Roberts) by accident and them forming a relationship that has to overcome the problem of Anna's celebrity. Of course, the answer is obvious from the very beginning, although there are enough flourishes and nice touches to make this much well worth seeing for any movie-goer, no matter how cynical.
In particular, the supporting cast is a charm (mainly consisting of well-known British TV actors), in particular the wonderful Emma Chambers as William's sister. Carrying over her performance as Alice in British comedy The Vicar of Dibley, she steals just about every scene she's in. Of course, it would be impossible to overlook the main performers and Grant is amiable enough doing his typical role as the English fop. Of course, the real interesting point of note there is that this was the role that rescued him from his ugly public persona at the time. As for Julia Roberts, she has appropriately enough never looked more beautiful, and puts in a charismatic performance (despite it not being quite as memorable as her tour de force in Erin Brockavich) that in particular shines at the end when she presents William with the choice to be with her or not. Managing to portray vulnerability she is every bit the luminous actress that the role demands of her.
There isn't really much to fault the film for, just the fact that it isn't particularly anything special. Indeed, it's telling that things are a lot more interesting when we're not focused on the leads' romance. Especially, what was probably meant as a study of the nature and absurdities of celebrity doesn't really come together. This has nothing to do with the acting but more the fact that it's difficult to take seriously something that presents itself openly as a fairytale romance. Or maybe this was the point, but if it's that love can conquer all then it's hardly unconventional. Still, the vein of wonderful British humour (along with Emma Chambers and Rys Ifans) make this enjoyable and sweet without ever succumbing to sentimentality. Sure it's no classic but you'll be hard pushed to find something more sweet-natured.
56 A Delightful Romantic Comedy--British Style!
Richard Curtis (writer of Four Weddings and a Funeral, and co-writer of The Vicar of Dibley, Mr. Bean, The Black Adder, and Bridget Jones's Diary) is, at least in my books, a fairly safe bet when it comes to comedy. Like Four Weddings and a Funeral, this film is a light (albeit fanciful) romantic British comedy which proceeds at a gentle pace, with the humour being characteristically understated and seasoned with some very funny moments. As with so many British comedies, the humour is primarily dialogue-based with very little reliance on slapstick or silly gags.
The film stars Hugh Grant (an actor whom, I will confess right now, I enjoy) as William Thacker, the rather reserved owner of a travel book shop in the Notting Hill district of London. Thacker meets Anna Scott (Julia Roberts), a high-profile Hollywood actress, when she wanders into his book shop. Things more or less progress from there, with the tensions arising from the stressors one would naturally expect to surface in any relationship involving a famous individual.
The supporting actors are absolutely wonderful in this film, with my favourite being James Dreyfus (The Thin Blue Line's side-splittingly funny Constable Goody), who is the real show stealer as Thacker's hilarious shop assistant, Martin. Dreyfus's role is a small one (and I'd have loved to have seen more use made of him), but he is certainly pivotal in providing the film with some of its funniest moments. Then there is Emma Chambers's portrayal of Thacker's ditsy, hare-brained sister, Honey (a character very similar to Chambers's role as the air-headed Alice Tinker in The Vicar of Dibley). Of course, one must not forget Thacker's Welsh flatmate, Spike, a slovenly, tactless, not to mention witless idiot.
The Special Edition of the video contains (after the closing credits) roughly seven clips that were edited out of the film, which I really enjoyed seeing. Following this is a five-minute behind-the-scenes tour with Hugh Grant, during which the viewer is introduced to Grant's parents (which was kind of nice).
In short, though I'm not a person who is normally attracted to the romantic comedy genre in general, I am a huge fan of British comedy, and I really quite enjoyed this film. But then Richard Curtis has a distinctive brand of humour which (at least in my opinion) is always highly enjoyable. Those who've enjoyed his other offerings (particularly Four Weddings and a Funeral, which bears the closest similarity to this one) will surely enjoy this film. Even if you're not familiar with Curtis (or with British comedies in general), I would not hesitate to recommend this film to anyone who enjoys and is looking for a really sweet, light romantic comedy. (Oh, and if you enjoyed this film, please check out The Vicar of Dibley--you'll not be disappointed. It's not a romantic comedy, but it contains the same type of humour and it is hands down one of the funniest shows around!)
57 Great package
I do not think this is the greatest movie in the world by any means (I bought it for my mother), but I am happy with what came in the DVD.
There are 2 DVD discs. One with a widescreen edition of the movie, one with a fullscreen view. Each CD had interesting extras like deleted scenes, etc.
58 Rhys Ifans rules
A fairly run of the mill, brit flik romantic comedy, the casting of Rhys Ifans though brings a level of comedy which elevates the movies as a whole.
Hugh Grant playing his usual stuttering awkward englishman to a tee, and he does it so well.
The most annoying element is the friends over the topness, much as in Bridget Jones diary, the actors involved seem to be overdoing it and it all a bit sickening.
And if only that bloody annoying Ronan Keating song wasnt peppered throughout, it causes a wave of nausea on its opening strains.
as romantic comedys go, its a pretty good one
59 Ending rips off 'Roman Holiday'. Second hand stuff.
None of this rings true, a sentiment apparently endorsed by Roberts who did not believe in a lot of her character's actions, especially over the old photographs. This may explain the lack of chemistry between the two stars and Robert's curiously stiff and un-attractive performance. I didn't believe in the press scrum outside Grant's front door, either. For a start, the police wouldn't accept an obstruction in a narrow street like that, but I won't carp on. There's the odd laugh.
60 DVD - Ultimate Edition
Notting Hill - You either love it or you hate it, and since you don't spend this much money on a DVD without knowing whether or not you like the film this review is purely about the extras on the DVD, ultimate edition. When I was trying to choose between the Collectors Edition and the Ultimate Edition I couldn't find any helpful reviews so here is the first Amazon review I have ever written.
Disc 1 -
Widescreen version of the film. Choice of English or French language, English captions and Spanish subtitles. Since I can't read Spanish I don't know what the difference between captions and subtitles is.
Feature commentary (subtitles available) - The Writer, Director and Producer talk over the whole film, providing a wonderful glimpse behind the scenes. Non-stop anecdotes about filming, props, sets, stars and supporting cast. The history of the blue door and the fate of garden benches. Why the entire production crew had to dress up in jackets and ties. Which of those locations were in fact sets on a sound studio and loads of other stuff that makes you view the film with a fresh eye. If you are still in love with Anna Scott and Wil Thacker, don't watch this as it does, to some extent, take away the magic of the story.
Spotlight on location (subtitles available) - 14:00 minutes - Scenes from the film with chat from the writer, director, producer, Julia Roberts, Hugh Grant, Emma Chambers and Hugh Bonneville.
Seasonal walk down Portobello Road - 3:30 minutes - Disappointingly short but very interesting. The Special Effects Supervisor explains just how they filmed Hugh's one minute walk through six months of London's weather changes.
Deleted Scenes - 6 scenes cut from the finished film. Many others are mentioned during the feature commentary but these are entertaining enough although personally I am glad they didn't make it to the final version. William tries to tell his parents, another blind date at the dinner table, Spike serves Anna pepperoni pizza, Spike messing things up even more after Anna leaves, Spike giving wedding day interviews to the media and an alternative ending set in Tony's prospering restaurant.
Music Highlights - Direct jumps to nine songs from the movie
Recommendations - Just a trailer for Erin Brockovich
Travel Book - About three pages of text from a (very poor) travel guide to Notting Hill with a map and list of restaurants. I felt very cheated as I was expecting a live tour of the real Notting Hill; hoping for something like a thirty minute documentary you might see on the travel channel.
Production Notes - About a dozen pages of text, much of which is mentioned in the commentary.
Cast and Film Makers - Brief Bios of the main actors, the writer, producer and director.
DVD Newsletter - Web address to register for on-line newsletter. It didn't inspire me to register so I can't tell you anything about it.
DVD-ROM - If you have the hardware on your computer there 'might' be access to wallpapers, screen savers and internet sites. It doesn't say exactly what and since I don't have a DVD-ROM I can't tell you anything else.
Disc 2
Full screen version of the film - Language and subtitles the same as disc 1
Feature Commentary - Same as disc 1
Music Highlights - Same as disc 1
Travel Book - Same as disc 1
Production Notes - Same as disc 1
Cast and Film Makers - Same as disc 1
DVD Newsletter - Same as disc 1
DVD-ROM - Same as disc 1
Hugh Grant's Movie Tips - 4:00 minutes - Disappointingly short. Meet his parents and some of the crew.
Elvis Costello video - Elvis Costello singing his version of 'She'. This video gave me a headache. There are only four verses but I lost count at 50 camera jumps from Elvis in the theatre, Elvis sitting down and Elvis standing outside. Some clips from the film included
Shania Twain video - Cute video of Shania singing 'You've got a way' with some clips from the film. Nicely done.
Photograph Montage - 4:45 minutes - This I thought was going to be another space filler but I was very pleasantly surprised. Stills from the film and a few behind the scenes shots set to the Anna and Wil music score by Trevor Jones. I found it amazing how much more I saw in a still that I missed in the film. Very well chosen pictures and beautiful music.
US Theatrical Trailer - 2:45 minutes - As seen in American Theatres
International Theatrical Trailer - 2:10 minutes - As seen in English Theatres - These two trailers are totally different and really bring home the cultural differences between England and America. I was surprised to see clips from a deleted scene here.
There it is. If you got this far, thanks for reading. By the way, I loved the film. Like Four Weddings and a Funeral it is just so English. Being English myself, from London, with a crush on Hugh Grant, I am of course extremely biased.
61 Emotional story that assimilate the truthful love
The film expresses difficult things with a fairytale like story that flow smoothly throughout the movie and you'll discover the other side of the celebrity , but its really a romantic story after all , full of emoitons , My advice if you are looking for something briliant don't search no more this is your movie .
62 One of my favorites - a real gem!
This is one of the relatively few "romantic comedies" that lives up to both ends of the deal. Usually you get far more of one than the other. This movie strikes an excellent balance. I saw Notting Hill in the theater twice, which is highly unusual for me. The first time was with a girlfriend and we both thoroughly enjoyed it. So much so that I dragged my husband along the second time. He even had to admit that he really liked it. Hugh Grant is so charming in this movie. And Julia Roberts is very believable and likeable in this flick. It's a twisted modern day fairy tale of sorts and it is extremely well done. Every bit of the cast is fantastic although Hugh and his roommate steal the show in terms of comedy. The soundtrack is immensely fitting and also worth the purchase. If you liked anything that either Julia or Hugh have done, you will love this one!
63 Absolutely Fabulous movie!!!
As a huge Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts fan, you can see why this is my all time favorite movie. Hugh Grant is funny without trying to be. He has such a natural wit about him. This movie has it all, humor, charm, and melt-your-heart moments that we all secretly hope for in our own lives. Not to mention a terrific soundtrack featuring the song "She" by Elvis Costello.
A famous movie star Anna Scott(Julia Roberts)finds herself in a bookstore in Notting Hill London owned by William Thacher(Hugh Grant). A few moments after she leaves he once again bumps into her and thus begins the story. To him, she is a fantasy and to her, he is a normalcy she has never had.
And the supporting cast........HILARIOUS!!!! Only one word to say here....SPIKE!!!! He alone keeps your side in stitches. And what about little sister Honey??? Another outrageously funny character.
This is a wonderful movie and if you haven't seen it you are truly missing out.
64 Hugh is great
While this Collector's Edition disc seems to offer a lot of extras, they actually add up to little more than a "Hill" of beans. The six deleted scenes were mercifully excised (they include a sappy alternative ending and a positively painful scene with Hugh Grant's bookstore owner and his parents); the feature commentary, with director Roger Michell, producer Duncan Kenworthy, and writer Richard Curtis, natters on. (We learn, gratefully, that Curtis sold his Notting Hill house--behind the film's famous blue door--for a bundle. Good timing.) One highlight: Grant's very funny, Lettermanesque behind-the-scenes tour.
65 Notting Hill
Unbelievably, Hugh Grant turns down Julia Roberts and the next moment he's announcing this to a roomfull of friends. They, without too much effort, convince Grant that he's made a terrible mistake. Then, they all immediately pile into a car (including his friend's wife in a wheelchair) and race to Roberts's hotel, breaking every traffic rule along the way. Couldn't Grant have quietly come to a realization without involving his odd circle of friends? And couldn't he have gone to try to see Roberts without dragging them all with him? I think that's what an American leading man would have done. This was an obvious effort to "build up" the ending, using all of the supporting characters. It was needless and you can see right through the scriptwriter's intentions. Also, my apology to Rhys Ifans, but I think he actually hurt the film and should have been left on the cutting room floor. He made the film hard to take seriously, which I really wanted to do.
66 Surprisingly entertaining movie in spite of Julia Roberts
This is a great comedy vehicle for Hugh Grant -- sardonic wit etc. Julia Roberts is acceptable because the role (essentially she plays herself) is not too taxing on her very limited acting ability. The supporting cast is quite funny -- especially the flat-mate. The finale with Elvis Costello attempting to sing like a grizzled Charles Aznavor is hilariously kitschy. Overall a surprisingly entertaining movie in spite of Julia Roberts.
67 Classic
In an act of good faith, "Notting Hill" begins with the awesome Elvis Costello singing the song "She". This would imply that the movie is all about how Hugh (and you) is going to fall in love with Julia Roberts. Not so fast. Julia is hardly the perfect object of desire here that she is in her earlier films. She's shallow, and flighty, and has a shotgun temper (okay, okay, she's still got that great smile, but bear with me here for a moment). So this movie breaks one of my first rules of romantic comedies: I *must* fall in love with the girl. But like another of my all-time favourites, "Say Anything...", it expertly portrays how the boy in question falls for said girl (even if I can't), and makes me believe that it is not only possible for him to do so, but unstoppable despite the odds against him.
So what's wrong with Julia here? Well, let's face it: she just doesn't turn in a very good performance. She seems to be trying to prove her character right when she says, "I told you I couldn't act!" She has not the low-key wit or stuffy self-deprecating sense of humour to pull of the decidedly British script. But the irony is that no one else on the planet could have played this role, or at least played it as convincingly. Her character, Anna Scott, is the Julia Roberts of the "Notting Hill" parallel universe: a commercially hyper-successful actress who longs not only for respectability, but also trucks full of attention. Anna only comes out of her shell when William pronounces her "heavenly", a trick I've seen Ms. Roberts fall for in dozens of interviews.
Now, I admit that Julia does deserve all the credit in the world for at least being willing to poke fun at her persona. A telling scene around a dinner table involves a sorriest sap contest for the last brownie. Anna tells of her ten years of dieting and her plastic surgeries, all in an attempt to postpone the "day, not long from now when [her] looks will go, they'll find out [she] can't act and [she'll] become a sad middle-aged woman who looks a bit like someone who was famous for a while." To the script's credit, her dinner companions don't fall for this sad tale (one tempered, minutes before, by her own admission that her last film paid her $15 million), but for at least one moment, Julia's own off-screen fears (or at least as I imagine them to be) are laid flat on the table.
The film works for me, mainly, because Hugh Grant plays the 'boy' role. Grant and screenwriter Richard Curtis have worked together three times by now ("Four Wedding and a Funeral" and "Bridget Jones's Diary" being their other collaborations), and every time the outcome has been pure gold. Grant is an expert at portraying this kind of character: witty and plain, genuine and straightforward, stumbling but elegant. In the early scenes with Julia, where his William Thacker appears to want to jump over the counter and maul the famous celebrity who's just stepped into his little travel book shop but can't because of his British reserve, he is charming and vulnerable all at once. And I think Hugh is the only actor working today who could respond to a question like, "Can I stay a bit longer?" with "Stay forever," and not make it sound false or melodramatic. Coming from his mouth, it sounds heartbreaking and real.
As for Curtis, he's managed a deft and funny script that puts a new spin on the boy-meet-girl/boy-loses-girl/(spoiler omitted) genre, while throwing in some slick Hollywood satire to help it all go down easier (he's fashioned a hilarious junket sequence ('Horse & Hound') that trumps anything a later Roberts film, the bland "America's Sweethearts", came up with). He captures true sentiment, even through such an unbelievable and fantastic situation as this one. And just like I wouldn't mind seeing Hugh Grant in this kind of role over and over again (with slight variations), if Richard Curtis would spend the rest of his days writing witty screenplays wherein Yanks fall in love with Brits who are egged on by a group of eccentric friends, I'd be terribly happy. Curtis himself has noted the obvious resemblance between "Notting Hill" and "Four Weddings and a Funeral"; let's hope he forgets the repetition next time he sits down at the keyboard.
Similarities aside, the background of "Notting Hill" is populated with a number of interesting and noteworthy performances. Tim McInnerny and Gina McKee play William's best friends; he's the world's worst cook, she's consigned to a wheelchair. Their love is palpable and endearing. Hugh Bonneville plays a sad-sack stockbroker friend. Emma Chambers is William's nervous sister. And of course, the wonderful Rhys Ifans nearly steals the show as Spike. Sure he gets to spend a lot of time wandering around in his underpants (not to mention a memorable little moment in a scuba suit), but Ifans never goes over the top to mine laughs from the character. Far from it. He's low-key, almost droll in his portrayal of the man who Will casually describes as little more than a "masturbating Welshman".
Where it was an act of good faith in the beginning, meant to endear itself to the audience when they didn't know what was coming, the use of Elvis Costello again singing "She" near the end perfectly sums up the movie: "Me, I'll take her laughter and her tears / And make them all my souvenirs / For where she goes I've got to be / The meaning of my life is she". It's a sappy sentiment, but following a movie that revels in its own status as such high-grade sap, it's also a perfect sentiment.
68 Pleasantly Suprised!
Not being a Hugh Grant fan and not being a Julia Roberts fanatic I didn't even bother to see this movie when it was released in the theaters. But I was glad that I rented it. It was a pleasant romantic-(semi)-comedy movie. I found myself feeling so sorry for Hugh's character and Julia's had me up and down, in and out, liking her and disliking her. Both did a fine job but this poor man was a glutton for punishment. It's like that when you are in love, hopelessly. You keep going back for more and more rejection, followed by hope (can you tell it didn't work for me?). Anyway - after I saw the movie I was enchanted with it. A very good movie and a nice suprise.
69 Good, old-fashioned romance for modern times
Notting Hill is one of my favorite romantic comedies, right up there with Harry Met Sally and Sleepless in Seatle. I've read that some people call this film "preposterous" or "completely unbelievable". In fact, I thought this movie very believable, centered around one realistic, if highly improbable, "what if?" What if an ordinary fan courted and married a movie super-star?
Hugh Grant plays an ordinary guy who has a chance meeting with international film star Julia Roberts (there was some other name for Roberts' character, but for all purposes, she is playing herself). A simple hello and a spilt cup of OJ kick-starts Grants romance with this very mysterious person, sweeping him into the crazy movie-star-life of press junkets and gossip reporters. The perfect film-image of Roberts is shattered with the reality that she is a very closed, cautious person with a sharp tongue. And yet, as all perfect romance movies do, the hard shell is gradually peeled back to reveal a very loving person inside.
I found the earthly Grant too be much more charming and interesting than the cold, distant Roberts, and I could associate with his character as he loved a person on a movie screen soo much that his heart broken. This film is a great "date movie", as it gives a lot to women without turning of men (there are some great jokes in there, just for the guys).
70 One fine, funny romantic comedy
Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant each appeared in two movies in the summer of 1998. Roberts starred in the smash hit, Runaway Bride, while Grant had top billing in the unsuccessful Mikey Blue Eyes. All this proves is that she can carry a picture, and he can't. Business and star politics aside, Notting Hill is easily the best summer movie they were in.
The plot is as preposterous as they come, but this is permitted in romantic comedy. Grant plays William Thacker, who runs a little travel bookstore on Portobello Road in London's Notting Hill district. Roberts is Anna Scott, the biggest female movie star on the planet. This is amusing in itself, since Roberts is exactly that in real life. On location in England, Scott wanders into William's shop one afternoon. He doesn't even recognize her until a customer does. Later, he runs into in the street, where he spills orange juice all over the both of them. Accepting an invitation to clean herself up, she goes to his flat. Emotions begin to smolder. What unfolds is by the book boy meets girl, boy loses girl, etc., but it's all done in witty, bright and sophisticated fashion.
Notting Hill utilizes two of the oldest Hollywood romantic devices - the two main characters have failed at love, and they come from social scenes that are polar opposites. Its writer and director are shrewd enough to know that these are tensions which can add the comedy to romance. She flounders in his world, and we laugh. He stumbles in hers, and we laugh still more. Even in the inevitable scene where their world collide, and the romance seems doomed, we find amusement.
This is the best and most successful British comedy [excluding their trademark period pieces] since Four Weddings and a Funeral, which also had but one major American character. We get a parade of those eccentric English characters we adore. By far the funniest is Spike [Rhys Ifans], who is William's ditzy, clueless flat mate. Most of his best scenes cannot be written down for a family publication, but I can say that they are bawdy, as opposed to tawdry. Spike does not know how to dress, how to carry on a conversation longer than two sentences or how to react normally to life's simplest situations. He may be the one character who is most likely to also exist in the real world. Ifans is almost assured of receiving a Best Supporting Actor nomination next spring.
Roberts and Grant are in top form. She doesn't grin her way out of every emotional moment, and he keeps his trademark stutter in check. It's hard to say how much real chemistry there is between them, but it hardly matters, because they are two of the most charming and affable actors on the screen today. Their performance are right up their with what I consider to be their best - she in My Best Friend's Wedding, he in Sense and Sensibility.
The photography is excellent. One scene, in which William walks along Portobello Road as the seasons change, is remarkable. It's one of those complex-to-do creations that comes off as seamless and simple. Also of note is a moment where Spike, in his underwear, unwittingly opens the flat door and walks into a sea of screaming, photo-snapping journalists. It is a classic comedic moment.
I don't think it matters all that much that the plot is a tried and true one. After all, the point isn't whether or not you paint a landscape, but how well you paint it. If Notting Hill were a painting, it wouldn't be a masterpiece, but it would be very pleasing to the eye nonetheless.
71 Very amusing film, Julia really shines, but.....
This is a great Saturday afternoon movie, but the ending was so badly ripped off the 1953 film Roman Holiday. Despite this amazingly obvious stunt, Julia Roberts shines once again, with Grant dithering around her. While Notting Hill is much funnier than Roman Holiday, Roman Holiday is a much more moving and romantic story (I think); I almost cried and for a 32 year old bloke who normally enjoys action and sci-fi, that's saying something.
72 Notting Hill
I am not a big fan of romantic comedies in general, but "Notting Hill" is one of my favorite movies. "Notting Hill" is a love story between travel book store owner, William Thacker played by Hugh Grant, and world famous actress, Anna Scott played by Julia Roberts. There is a special chemistry between Grant and Roberts that I seldom see in modern films. There's a perfect blend of romance and comedy. Rhys Ifans, who plays Thacker's flatmate Spike, adds to the comedy. The soundtrack is also wonderful, and includes the beautiful song, "She". This movie might have been billed as a "chick-flick" but both my wife and I enjoyed it immensely. "Notting Hill" is highly recommended.
73 Nice, Little Movie
I thought the chemistry between Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts was very genuine. I thoroughly enjoyed this pleasant, funny movie and have watched it over and over. Sure it's predictable, but isn't that kind of a nice change in today's world? The soundtrack is great too!
74 the horror...the horror....
I saw this movie on a transcontinental flight and was ready to ask for a parachute about halfway through. How this ..., lifeless exercise in tedium made so much money and managed to garner so many stars here screams for a new episode of "In Search Of." In this case, it could be called "In Search of Entertainment." Julia Roberts plays a nice Julia Roberts (although I find the nasty Julia Roberts at the last People's Choice Awards more interesting). Hugh Grant continues his bumbling, stuttering English fop routine. There's a "zany" roommate. One of the "big laughs" is the sight of Hugh Grant sitting in a movie theatre wearing water goggles...the horror, the horror...I could've used a entire roll of film like toilet paper and run that through a projector and made a more interesting and entertaining movie. I give this movie five squating dogs.
75 Enjoyable Film and outstanding acting
This film is well worth viewing - Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant are both outstanding in their roles. The overall story is like a 'Fairy Tale' come true for both! As the movie's cover states - "Best Romantic Comedy in Years" is very, very true. It is a must see for any fan of Roberts particulary and Grant. Grant adds a genuine real life down to earth feeling to the movie in the role he plays
76 A Romantic Comedy Classic
The basic premise of this film is completely unbelievable, yet throughout the film I always believed the story. Why? The acting, casting, and settings are excellent. Hugh Grant is perfectly cast as the middle-of-the-road bookshop owner, with great friends and a routine normal life. Into his life pops Julia Roberts, also perfectly cast as the international movie star that falls for this ordinary guy after a chance meeting in his bookstore.
The Notting Hill neighborhood is beautifully depicted, and the London setting is perfect. The true treasure of the film is Hugh's amazingly eccentric and odd roommate. His scenes are hilarious. The cast works so well together they seem to fit like a pair of old jeans. You will be laughing out loud at the "Horse and Hound" interviews.
I recommend this movie, especially in DVD form, as it has an excellent soundtrack, and some great deleted scenes. To say this is a masterpiece is a bit of a stretch, but I have thoroughly enjoyed watching it several times. One of the best of the "romantic comedy" genre.
77 An American Sweetheart in rare form
While Notting Hill may be a bit of a trifle as motion pictures go, it's an amusing and entertaining way to while away an afternoon. Julia Roberts radiates her characteristic charm as Anna Scott, and Hugh Grant puts a high polish on his trademark bumbling as William, the humble London bookstore owner. The film offers a glimpse into one of London's most charming districts, an is a witty self-referencing look at Ms. Roberts herself.
The Ultimate Edition DVD is amazing, with music videos and featurettes about the film. I particulary enjoyed the behind-the -scenes look at how they shot William's walk down Portobello Rd. during the changing seasons. The packaging is very attractive, particulary the fact that you can open it up to reveal the wall with Julia's face on it without the overlay of Hugh Grant and the title of the film, which is something I've wanted to do since I first saw this poster.
All in all, a charming flick by a charming actress.
78 radiant*
I bought this movie on impules(something i do more now) and immediatly was won over. It is a wonderfully casted, crafted movie and is perfectly charming. The cast is so very balanced and no one is underdevloped showing how normal hardships are equal to the mega hardships of the central characters. The seasonal montage is very clever and unique i think, and the clash of lives is very well provided for. The friends are so genuine you feel instantly welcome in their lives and homes. So many clever scenes that the movie never lags and is wonderful to see again and again.
The ending with the press conference is just about as perfect as it can me..breathlessly timed and even after seeing it many times i still feel i don't know how it will come out..can you say that for many movies?
JULIA IS RADIANT THROUGH OUT..
79 Good movie and good DVD set
This DVD collection includes two disks- the first has the movie in widescreen, the second in full screen. Each disk has some of the same extras, such as musical highlights and a "making of..." sort of documentary.
Some of the more interesting points are the "Seasonal Walk Along Portobello Road." This featurette shows how they marked the passage of a year within the move with William Thakkard's (Hugh Grant)walk along the market-filled road.
A quite cute bit is the "Hugh Grant's Film Tips." This is just a light look at his recommendations such as not allowing your parents to your film set.
All this being said, this is a good movie. I didn't like it much the first time I saw it- Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) just came across as very selfish and uncaring, which she is. However, upon further viewings, I have come to empathize with her more, and I like the character more. The supporting cast is also great. You come away really rooting for and liking William.
80 THE most Funny movie
This is one of the cutes and funiest movie I have ever watched.
I have look at it about 10 time.
So much romance and so much fun. Hug Grand is just perfect in that role so is Julia.
And for thoses who do not know him yet you will discover the funyest "thing", and yes it is a human beeing, that have ever walked on this planet.
81 Interesting but not extraordinary
Notting Hill is a pleasant movie that presents some interesting moments making it a soft movie.
In spite of being a romantic story, the movie presents some comedy parts, mainly offered by Spike, starred by Rhys Ifans.
The contradictions of the romance follow the same path, a couple with different kinds of life and job, different economic levels, but with non-defined futures that could come along.
The love begins when Anna Scott (Julia Roberts) an American movie star visits a travel bookstore in England and is attended
by William Thacker (Hugh Grant), the owner.
From this moment on the meeting becomes frequent, but with problems caused by Anna's professional liabilities and by journalists that want news about her relationships.
Some small parts could be improved, like a moment when Anna, who is wearing only a borrowed shirt from William, answers William's front door and is photographed by journalists. This would never happen in real life, a famous actress wouldn't be that naive.
The story isn't great, there aren't beautiful set photos and the production is rather normal to a Julia Roberts' movie.
Even so it is a worth watching movie.
82 Brightly written & superbly acted
Notting Hill is the brightly written, superbly acted, and magnificently produced comedy of a travel bookstore owner who meets a movie star. This two hour, four minute film stars Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant under the apt direction of Roger Mitchell. Now available in a DVD format, viewers are treated not only to one of the best comedy films of recent years, but a wealth of "Bonus Materials" that include Hugh Grant movie tips, music videos, "The Travel Book", photograph montages, theatrical trailers, and more! Notting Hill is an enthusiastically recommended acquisition for community library video/DVD collections, as a "must" for Julia Roberts fans! This and all other Universal Home Videos can be easily accessed for home or community library acquistion online: http://homevideo.universalstudios.com/hv_flash.html
83 Who is Rhys Ifans ?
One thing I admired about this movie was the great British Supporting cast. Much of the cast is a "yuppie" british version of thirtysomething, who play William (Hugh Grant's) friends. However, one cast member, Rhys Ifans is Spike - William's flatmate. Simply put, SPIKE STEALS THE SHOW.
Rhys Ifans is brilliant in his portrayal of the grungy Welch flatmate. He is worth the price of this movie alone. I think we will hear a lot from this man in future films.
On the DVD, Spike plays a key role in the deleted scenes.
Hugh Grant is brilliant in this movie. I'm a BIG fan of his!
84 All the characters are very entertaining
This is my favorite movie, and I think the reason I keep watching it so many times is that the characters are all so hilarious. The roommate is great, and the sister is more than funny. All wonderful actors and highly recommended!
85 the ultimate romatic comedy
it's just the ultimate romantic comedy. this one of the rare movies you can see again and again and again and again....
86 From a guy's view... a Great Movie!
Even from a guy's point of view, Notting Hill is funny and charming... not to mention, my wife kept sighing dreamingly at the sheer fairy-taleness of the movie. Julia Roberts plays a fantastic role while Hugh Grant plays the part all guys want to play. This is a great movie for both genders... Its something you can even watch a few times ;-)
87 Heart Warming
Actually, I thought this movie was quite heart warming. I particularly liked the contrast between the intectual and the movie star. Though one wouldn't think that they had anything in common, in the end I thought they did. It also brought to mind something that Oscar Wilde once wrote: "Life imitates art."
Also of interest was the way Julia showed her vulnerable side, her loneliness, and her frustration in having to cope with a high profile image. The press bashing scene was funny as well as being awkward. It made me think that the loss of privacy must be terrible sacrifice.
88 Great movie, Great cast, Great soundtrack
Great movie, Great cast, Great soundtrack... Is there anything better than that?
89 I'm not a Julia Roberts fan but this movie is fun to watch
I first saw this movie on television and thought it was fun to watch. The story was pretty well laid out and has a lot going for it. I like the way the characters interact, the way the story develops, even the way it ends (although I did have to watch some of it twice to catch some bits I missed the first time). Not much sex, which is more implied than shown. The PG-13 rating seems to me to be mostly due to the occaisional profanity which doesn't seem to be illogically placed but actually works for the story.
90 A Great Film and a Great DVD
The Academy Awards really missed the boat on this one. The bias against comedies at Oscar (insert registered trademark here!) time blatantly sends the message that comedies are not to be regarded as "great films". Too bad, because as any great actor will tell you, comedy is a lot harder to play than tragedy. And "Notting Hill" is a perfect example of a cast of actors playing the truth in comedy.
This is a film where you care about each chracter (the mark of a great film). Julia Roberts does splendidly as "Anna Scott", showing the human side of fame as the world's biggest star. Hugh Grant is great as "William Thacker", the British bookstore owner who Anna falls for (and he for her, in a wonderfully Bristish sort-of way).
And this films ultimate greatness is in the details: the friendships, the slice of life in Notting Hill, the wonderfully rich relationships between people. Screenwriter Richard Curtis crafted a wonderful story, with truth and wit.
If you love this film, this Ultimate Edition is worth the $$. The cast interviews, the walk down Portebello Road, and the music clips are a real treat that makes the movie viewing experience a great one!
91 Glorious romantic romp
One of my favorite movies of all time, especially when I need a romance fix. Setting is gorgeous; music is evocative and appropriate; supporting cast are strong and hysterical and perfect, even the chance walk-ons; stars are brilliant and moving. The DVD has lots of extras, all worth having.
92 JR sucks
julia roberts sucks.
93 Hate when this happens
I bought the Notting Hill DVD when it first was released. Love the movie. For me it's one of those movies I can watch over and over again for various reasons. Great cast, rich characters, etc. HOWEVER...I can't stand when I put out ($) for a DVD and a few months later, another DVD with more features hits the shelves. So now the dilemma is, do I spend even more money for the new DVD just so I can have the few extras I didn't get on the first one? Just put out the best DVD in the first place! Or make the extras available without having to buy the movie again.
94 Pure Cheese!
Don't forget the crackers for this cheese fest of a movie with your typical predictable story line and over-used Julia Roberts and Hugh. Why do people like the same old recycled s**t. Now an "Ultimate Edition" is being released. C'mon...please! Get a life! What a waste of money filming this one. This is for brains with limited bandwidth. Do your self a favor and skip this one.
95 Smart, funny, romantic comedy
NOT your typical romantic comedy. A SMART film instead of one with predictable plot and dialogue. Hugh Grant is adorable, his roommate is a scream. (Do I even need to mention Julia's performance, which is of course, great.) Very enjoyable story and characters. A notable, funny cameo, and the best part - a movie that tells you how it ends up!!
96 Kinda Like Lays Chips, Can't Just Watch It Once!
I saw this movie the first time and wasn't as impressed as I thought I might be. Then I bought it and watched it again and now claim it among my favorites. It's a comedy with lots of laughter and plenty of moments of masterful acting. You'll grow to love the group of friends who face adversity leaning on each other's shoulders. There is a moment or two where you actually even feel pity for them. Watch it again and again, you'll fall in love with it.
97 Romantic comedies will never die
I consider myself to have a greater tolerance for 'chick flicks' than the average guy. That fact that I liked 'Notting Hill' was because I gave it half a chance. Part of the charm in a movie that deals out warm and fuzzy feelings is the utter improbability of all of it. This movie is a modern day fairy tale, it isn't a film that was made to be read too literally. Sprinked with a dose of light-heartedness, its quickly apparent that this movie is interested in winning hearts, not minds. In true chick flick style, it's boy meets girl...then in a pleasant twist, it is the GIRL who loses the guy. Only, its he who finds himself having to win her back in the end. Strange.
Julia Roberts has a role I imagine wouldn't be too much of a reach for her - the world's most famous actress. Yet she plays the part with barely a touch of arrogance. Obviously the writers are not even aiming for authenticty (but we should have no problem 'believing' anything this film dishes out, right?) When famous American film star Anna Scott walks into the travel bookstore managed by daggy William Thacker (Hugh Grant, ever the sensitive and affable Englishman) in London's hip Notting Hill, she finds his down-to-Earth candor endearing, and his nervous stammering even more so. Her profession requires people to put on faces. She's attracted to his total lack of pretension, and he, is thrilled just to be looking at someone extraordinary. But with her being a famous film star and he a ordinary single bloke, the chances of love seem minimal. Aha, but this IS a modern day fairy tale. Just remember that for the grand-standing final scene where William tries to win back Anna, a scene that will leave women's hearts fluttering. It's all a bit too much to accept, even for THIS film, but it's no reason to enjoy it any less.
98 Why, Hollywood? Why?
Why oh why does Hollywood torment us with the same nonsense day in and day out? Julia's 24 capped teeth shine bright in this otherwise bland story about...oh who cares! It's Julia Roberts, the hottest actress for the next year or so, until the media finds someone else who's willing to sell out. And Hugh Grant, british chum extraordinaire, stars as...the other guy. Frankly, I could have spend my two hours cleaning the gunk from underneath my toenails with icicles. Rent a real movie instead of this rubbish!
99 I want two hours of my life back!
This is one of the worst movies I have ever had the misfortune to watch. I would have walked out of the movie house, but I kept thinking, it had to get better. It didn't. The only thing this movie is good for, is a sleep tonic. If you suffer from insomnia, put it in the vcr and you will be out in 10 minutes. Boring, Boring, Boring.
100 quite simply great!
Notting hill (1995) Notting hill is one of the sharpest romantic comedys we have ever seen. The movie is funny, romantic and very thouching dough still a bit kitch. Julia roberts plays anna, a hollywood star (she does it very well unsurprisingly) who arrives by chance into Grant`s tiny book store wich is located in Notting Hill, and then the love novel begins. Usualy Julia`s pearly whites are the big draw in her movies but this time it is Grant the one to steal the film. He is simple, charming and incredibly wit, all this together make this unbelievable story seem posible after all. The movie`s supporting actors are very colorfull and very contributing to the tail. Especialy Grant`s roomate a realy goofy guy with bad hygine. If you have ever seen a movie that you can see 10 times in a road and never get sick of it you`ll understand how we fell about Notting Hill!
