When it comes to quintessential Christmas viewing, one British classic consistently makes it to almost everyone’s watch list each festive season.

Richard Curtis’ directorial debut has firmly established itself as a cherished romantic comedy in film history, and rightly so. Boasting an impressive ensemble cast featuring the likes of Dame Emma Thompson, Sir Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Keira Knightley, Bill Nighy, Laura Linney, Andrew Lincoln, Martin Freeman, Claudia Schiffer, and Rowan Atkinson among others, this 2003 Yuletide rom-com is being termed a must-see this holiday season.

For those eager to tune in, the evergreen favourite Love Actually will be broadcast tonight, December 24, on ITV1 at 9.10pm.

Penned and directed by Curtis, Love Actually features a predominantly British cast, many of whom have previously collaborated with Curtis. The film is a global co-production involving the United Kingdom, France, and the United States, with most scenes shot on location in London.

Produced on a $40 million budget, the film was a colossal success at the box office, raking in nearly $250 million worldwide. It also received two Golden Globe nominations – Best Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy and Best Screenplay – and earned Bill Nighy a BAFTA for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, reports the Mirror.

The official synopsis of the film reads: “Nine intertwined journeys examine the complexities of the one emotion that connects all individuals, love. Among these individuals is David, the handsome, newly elected British prime minister who falls for a junior staffer. Sarah is a graphic designer whose devotion to her mentally ill brother complicates her love life. Harry, a married man, is tempted by his attractive new secretary.”

This festive favourite has garnered widespread acclaim from both critics and viewers through the years, with one reviewer describing it as: “A polished, fluid production with impeccable technical credits and a winning soundtrack, Love Actually is the very definition of entertainment and is guaranteed to bring joy to the world this Christmas.”

Another reviewer praised the film, saying: “There’s so much right and yummy about this multi-tiered plum cake of a romantic comedy.”

Meanwhile, a third critic said: “Forget about stiff upper lips. Though very British, this irresistible ensemble comedy will easily coax full-sized grins of enjoyment from viewers.”

A fourth reviewer deemed the movie near-flawless, adding: “This is almost perfect but it’s 15 minutes too long. Love Actually is one of my favourite holiday and romantic comedies.”

Viewers have heaped praise upon the film as well, with one fan describing it as: “A timeless feel good romantic comedy that feels better with age. The different stories intertwine and gel together leading towards a happy ending. It is a perfect Christmas movie.”

Another impressed fan, branding it ‘mandatory viewing’, said: “Sorry, but this is officially a Christmas classic, fight me. Perfect cast, perfect stories, peak British humour, adorable cheesiness, and a glorious amount of sex. I’m no longer capable of criticizing it. Mandatory viewing on the 23rd or 24th. End of discussion.”

Meanwhile, one emotional viewer wrote a heartfelt tribute to the film, saying: “When the movie first came out, my local newspaper gave it a one-star rating. So I ended up not seeing it until a couple years after it was on DVD. Luckily, by that time, I was already with my soul mate. “It immediately became one of the most poignant and impactful movies of both of our lives. 27 years into marriage now, we still watch it at least twice a year. The story really covers every angle of love. Life – and soul – affirming.”

Love Actually will air on television today, December 24, on ITV1 at 9.10pm.

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