Rather sprawling in its portrayal of several love stories, the film strikes some appeal at times, and misses the mark at others -- all the while somehow managing to present itself in a charming manner. With not much time to actually get to know the characters, excellent actors come to the call, and in fact, most do a find job there.

Though not particularly believable as the British Prime Minister, Grant presides primarily as himself -- delightfully falsely modest, semi-bumbling, good-hearted, in love. He's at his best meeting the muscling, womanizing American president played by Billy Bob Thorton -- perhaps a fun well-deserved, rib at the States.

As for the rest of the film? The kid in the octopus costume earns the biggest laugh, Billy Nighy as the self-deprecating, washed-up rock artist is a close second. Otherwise, the film swings sometimes abruptly from light-hearted to broken-hearted serious -- averaging itself out with lows and highs in both drama and humor.

Writer Richard Curtis is no stranger to the romantic comedy. While I really enjoyed "Notting Hill," "Four Weddings and a Funeral" didn't do much for me. "Love Actually" is more like the latter. Still a strong B, almost a B+. Kudos to the very touching "real" tape of couples and families coming together at the airport. These clips package the film perfectly with love and add a great deal to its presentation.

With so many little stories of love and love gone sour to tell, the movie gets to be a bit of a mess at times. But then again -- doesn't love (actually)?