A LOT LIKE LOVE

A chance meeting on a plane brings Oliver (Ashton Kutcher) and Emily (Amanda Peet) together for the first time. Neither of them is particularly interested in a relationship. Oliver has just finished college and wants to get his "ducks in a row".  His ducks being: job, career, house and finally a beautiful wife. Emily is a somewhat quirky individual who doesn't see Oliver as "her type". In spite of their differences they 'connect' and a silly bet means that over the years they keep in touch. They meet up from time-to-time but in spite of the friendship and love that develops it never seems to be the right time and they part again.

A Lot Like Love is a little like When Harry Meet Sally but not as funny or astute. There are a few good laughs but not enough, and the story drags a bit. In between the fun parts it plods along and there isn't enough happening to keep things interesting. The ending is predictable and a little bit of an anti-climax.

It's not all bad and on the positive side the two main characters Oliver and Emily are quite likeable. You will find yourself hoping that they get the happy-ever-after ending after all the missed opportunities. Ashton Kutcher does well in his role and his character comes across as a little naive and silly in a teenager kind of way. Emily is a little more 'clued in' and at first looks confident but where men are concerned she turns out to be a bit needy and perhaps not as confident as she first appears. They look comfortable on screen together and their conversations come across as genuine.

Bottom Line: Nothing special about this light-hearted rom-com which could have been funnier and better paced but the characters add a certain charm. An uninspiring but pleasant 'date movie'.

If you enjoy A Lot Like Love you might enjoy The Wedding Planner,  How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days (Recommended),  Two Weeks Notice,  Just Married. 

Reviewed by Niall Quinn, Premier Movie Reviews 2005.

RELATED MOVIE REVIEWS:

NIGEL COLE:  Calendar Girls.

ASHTON KUTCHER:  Cheaper By The Dozen,  Just Married,  The Butterfly Effect.

AMANDA PEET:  Changing Lanes,  Identity,  Something's Gotta Give.

KATHRYN HAHN:  How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days.

Genre: Romantic Comedy

Director: Nigel Cole

Certificate: A Lot Like Love was rated 12A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of twelve years of age and upwards. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult. Violence =  mild. Drugs = none. Language = mild. Sex/nudity = mild.

Official Movie Website: A Lot Like Love

~ Main Cast ~

Ashton Kutcher

Amanda Peet

Kathryn Hahn