The Holiday (2006)

The Holiday (2006)

A feel good holiday romance from the iconic Nancy Meyers.

Laura’s Rating: 4/5 Stars

Plot: After some bad luck in love for both Californian executive Amanda and British writer Iris, the two women decide to swap homes for the holidays and take a much needed break. Can they escape the trappings of love while each of them are halfway around the world from home?

Analysis: The film has a pretty solid cast with some really fun cameos. Jude Law in 2006 is stunning and incredibly charming. Jack Black in a love interest role is kinda weird, but also refreshing. I think Cameron Diaz tends to over-act at times, but her performance was serviceable, as was Kate Winslet’s. Elli Wallach as Arthur is so freaking cute and his wisdom brings some heart to the film. The character of Jasper, played by Rufus Sewell, is the WORST but so charming, which Sewell balanced perfectly.

Once the characters started finding their place in their new locations, I really became invested in their adventures. The cuts to little movie trailers throughout the film were a bit jarring but I kind of liked them. I wish that concept had been fleshed out more so it didn’t feel as random. Rosehill Cottage is what English country Christmas dreams are made of and it’s a perfect setting for the film. 

This was the only movie on the Lit and Flicks Christmas Movie Bracket a few years ago that I hadn’t seen before. I’m a huge fan of the classics so I didn’t have super high expectations for The Holiday. I have to say that the movie is actually incredibly charming and heartwarming. I really enjoyed it and while I don’t know that it will make my rotation every year, I’ll certainly revisit it again sometime.