by David Flapan
as published exclusively here, at ChiGuy's Cyber Page
This is a film that could be classified into many genres, most notably
comedy, romance, and satire. Julia Roberts charmingly plays an actress
who is similar to herself in that, for both her real self and her character,
the tabloids have haunted them, they have had several public failed relationships,
and they are known more for looks than acting talent. Is Julia Roberts
satirizing her own situation? I don't think so. She plays the
role of the film star, Anna Scott, with an earnestness that doesn't even
evoke her real-life issues.
She meets Hugh Grant, a local traveling bookstore
owner, while browsing at his shop. Here the suspension of our disbelief
must rise to its highest point. She is apparently so enamored with
his "down-to-earthness" that she non-chalantly pursues him. The majority
of the picture depicts scenes from their quite unorthodox relationship.
Meeting his family, early in their relationship, was a foundation upon
which several personality traits of the characters were revealed, in a
scene that was both convincing and that just worked.
There are, of course, several cliches and contrived
scenes. Their first meeting has him accidentally spilling juice on
her shirt, which morphs into an excuse to spend time together. The
ending, while predictable, is still presented in an original context, and
was almost satisfying.
Notting Hill is a clever antidote to the
usual and common summer science fiction/action fare. It appeals to
all ages and both genders. Julia gives a performance that, like many,
will be compared to 1990's Pretty Woman, is winning and appealing.
Hugh Grant is typecast; yet brilliantly pulls off another character that
is funny but doesn't know it, handsome but doesn't know it, an everyday
guy who happens to be in an unusual relationship, and one (being involved
with a celebrity) many of us have thought about.
