It’s the 1960s. Barbara Novak (Renee Zellweger) writes a worldwide bestseller rejecting love and embracing independence, equality and sex. Catcher Block (Ewan McGregor) realizes she’s not a librarian hag and decides that she, like all other women, really only wants one thing — marriage — and he’s determined to take her down. It sounds like the plot of another ridiculous romantic comedy, but surprisingly, “”Down With Love”” isn’t quite what it appears to be.
Although not quite the manifesto that it advertises itself to be, “”Down With Love”” manages to throw together two incredibly charismatic stars in what turns out to be a strangely satisfying romantic comedy. With enchantingly elaborate settings and hyper-colored costumes and movements, “”Love”” brings to life a surreal dream of the 1960s that is retained in the memories and imaginations of so many.
Because the filmmakers took such artistic liberties portraying their version of the ’60s and did not stick to reality of the era, the film has a very humorous, light-hearted feel that is conveyed from the very first moment.
Using the Doris Day/Rock Hudson films as a guiding point for the film, “”Love”” gives Zellweger and McGregor dynamic characters with real personalities. Thanks to the leaps in feminism since the ’60s, the film is able to utilize gender reversals that weren’t available in those original films. One would never see Doris Day telling other women to enjoy sex “”a la carte”” like men do. And just when one thinks Novak’s character is pinned down, there is always an interesting surprise awaiting.
The way Zellweger is introduced in the film, wagging her hips back and forth as she walks with a light step in her pink and white wool dress, the audience can tell that this is not a typical romantic comedy. Novak isn’t just another bitter woman spurned by love who ends up falling in love with the enemy. No, she’s actually smart, so smart, in fact, that she fools the entire world. Zellweger plays this role with a great deal of flair, and while lacking much realism, her character is still endearing.
McGregor, of “”Moulin Rouge”” and “”Trainspotting”” fame, does a brilliant job as the “”ladies’ man, man’s man, man about town.”” His charismatic performance brings back memories of Cary Grant and William Holden. Sarah Paulson also does a commendable job as Novak’s editor and best friend, Vikki Hiller.
But perhaps the most show-stopping performance is that of David Hyde Pierce as Catch’s best friend and editor Peter McMannus. Hyde Pierce is wonderful and touching as the not-so-charming McMannus who is unsure, yet hopelessly in love with Hiller. His portrayals of McMannus’ insecurities and quirks are delightfully eccentric and by far the best parts of the film.
What sets this film apart from other romantic comedies, though, is the great amounts of sexual innuendo laced throughout the film. With references and scenes that would more likely be found in a teen comedy flick, “”Love”” distinguishes itself from other romances that are either very clean or very dirty, landing somewhere snuggly in between.
Although the film occasionally tries to be too clever with its long word play and exaggeration, “”Down With Love”” is a smart comedy with a great cast. It’s a lot of fun, but guys might want to stay home for this one.
Down With Love
***
Starring Renee Zellweger and Ewan McGregor
Now playing
Rated PG-13
