This film reflects the disjointed world in which we live with film editor Mick Moore trying to fit as much into a film about relationships as he can. The result is a flicky move from one scene to the next without really spending enough time in each to get to grips with the individual plots. The writer Richard Curtis must take some of the responsibility for this as he also directs. This raises the question should a writer direct their own work? You the viewer will have to decide.

The film in question is “Love Actually” and deals with a number of story lines without really getting to grips with any in depth. What you see you will enjoy, for the amusement content in each and the fine acting displayed on the screen. As you will expect from this sort of set up a number of well known actors take small parts, with possibly Bill Nighy, as the old, has been singer Billy Mack, who suddenly finds that he has a number one for Christmas and only one real friend, and Hugh Grant as the love struck bachelor Prime Minister taking the lead with the audience’s appreciation. People will feel for Emma Thomson as the taken for granted wife, Karen, of flattered and chased husband Harry (Alan Rickman). Liam Neilson, as recently widowed Daniel, with a love struck stepson Sam (Thomas Sangster). Colin Firth keeps the women happy as he falls for his Portugese housekeper Aurelia (Lucia Moniz).

The nineteen sixties music will stay in your mind when you leave the cinema, but much of the film will quickly fade. Savour what appeals to you from this light entertainment.135 mins 15 © BA

“Love Actually” is in York from December, 2003.