Two Weeks Notice [2003] (REGION 1) (NTSC)

It would be easy to dismiss this as just another Hollywood star vehicle, a formulaic rom-com that could have been produced anytime in the last 50 years or so. But it is impossible to deny that, although offering nothing new, the script does at least work well. In casting the stars exactly to type, making no social comment and leaving the audience happily gorged on feel-good vibes by the end, if nothing else Two Weeks Notice at least offers universal appeal. --Nikki Disney

But, even knowing what to expect, I decided to sit and watch it one winter afternoon, tissues in hand (for my cold I feel compelled to point out) and enjoy. Well I'm here to tell you that this rom-com, whilst still sticking with the time-honoured (some would say time-worn) template, still manages to be genuinely funny and charming - something I found lacking in the majority of both Hugh Grant films and generic romantic comedies. Hugh Grant does play himself as usual, but with what seems more assurance and confidence than the norm, and less of the bumbling and stuttering that we have come to associate with everyone's favourite quintessentially English rom-com actor who isn't Mr Darcy.

Okay, this was never going to trouble Oscar, but that's not why people want to see a film like this, neither will it be for dazzling special effects or a gripping narrative. But it's comfortable pace, simple but sweet plot and gentle comedy make it the perfect Sunday afternoon film to watch in front of the fire (especially if you have a cold - a feel-good film is just what you need, and this film fits the bill nicely).

However, there are some, (in fact, frequent) sharp and funny one-liners peppering this film. The 'com' aspect of the film is certainly superior to the 'rom', but there's not many ways that that can be original really is there? It joins the dots accurately without deviating much, and it is left to the 'com' to make the film stand out. We all know Mr Grant can deliver deadpan one-liners to perfection, and he has ample opportunity to demonstrate said talent here, and does so. The comic lines flow thick and fast, especially in the first hour, before in the final act settling down to address the 'serious' romantic issue at stake, where the laughs are pushed aside for the love. As stated before, the romance is textbook, but the comedy is a pleasant and genuine surprise. There are even a few real laugh-out-loud moments - a few more than your average Hugh Grant flick!

Although Sandra Bullock produces the film as well as starring it, it is Hugh Grant at the wheel. Ms Bullock simply plays the textbook romantic lead, spunky and sparky, bristly on the outside but sweet on the outside, and we all know what's going to happen. Does this constitute a spoiler if everyone knows before seeing the review or film? But anyway, in today's fearful climate, something light-hearted, comical and heart-warming (so good for the heart then!) is often just what is needed, and this is a fun, gentle, completely un-taxing film that fits the bill perfectly. And that's not a bad thing.