By Patrick Cremona

Published: Friday, 03 December 2021 at 12:00 am


Festive romcoms are never exactly in short supply, but one of the most enduring examples of the genre is undoubtedly Richard Curtis’ classic Love Actually, which was first released back in 2003.

It’s no surprise, then, that Aml Ameen’s new film Boxing Day includes some nods to that film – including one scene that riffs on the famous moment when Mark (Andrew Lincoln) turns up at Juliet’s (Kiera Knightley) door with a message delivered on several sheets of paper.

Speaking to RadioTimes.com for the new film’s release, Ameen – who writes, directs and stars in the movie – said that Love Actually was just one of many reference points when he was crafting the film.

“The 1940 classic The Philadelphia Story was an influence in terms of the banter and the wit,” he said. “Then My Best Friend’s Weddings is like my favourite rom-com of all time and there’s a bit of a borrow of the music there.

“And then, of course, you know, Love Actually and Notting Hill. Thosee Richard Curtis movies have been done so well, and it painted a version of Britain that is very charming. And so you know, I just wanted to add my personal touch to that.”