‘Love Actually’ Makes a Comeback to Cinemas for Its 20th Anniversary Celebration

THE GRAND SCENE
Two decades since its premiere, ‘Love Actually’ is set to return in a grand style with a remastered 4K edition, thanks to Studiocanal and Universal Pictures. This holiday favorite, sprinkled with a plethora of stars and interwoven romances, stands out as a festive film treasure. November and December will see the release of this upgraded version, not just in homes but also as a digital treat, complete with a special 30-minute retrospective featurette bringing together cast and creators’ reflections.

As the Christmas bells chime in, it’s clear that ‘Love Actually,’ crafted by Richard Curtis in 2003, has not aged a day in the hearts of rom-com aficionados. Celebrating its two-decade mark, the film is rekindling its old charm in a lustrous 4K rendition, set to hit both the cozy corners of home theaters and the majestic silver screens internationally.

‘Love Actually’ rises above the rom-com fray, adored for its enchanting depiction of love’s myriad forms, wrapped in a festive London backdrop. The film’s narrative threads weave through the lives of eight different couples, including the heartwarming storyline of Prime Minister David, played by Hugh Grant, and his affection for Natalie, a member of his household staff. At the box office, it was a sensation, raking in about $247 million, which was quite the stocking stuffer considering its $40 million budget. The film boasts a glittering ensemble cast, with the likes of Emma Thompson, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, Bill Nighy, and Liam Neeson bringing their characters to life.

The meticulous restoration of ‘Love Actually’ to 4K was a labor of love, sourced from the original 35mm negatives from Universal Pictures. The transatlantic collaboration between London and Los Angeles studios, with the watchful eye of English colorist Adam Glassman and director Curtis, resulted in the film’s first-ever HDR version in Dolby Vision—a true holiday gift to cinema lovers.

What’s New in the ‘Love Actually’ 4K Release, and When’s the Drop?
Image Courtesy of Universal

Packed within the 4K home entertainment release is a heartwarming 30-minute featurette, crafted in London, inviting audiences behind the scenes with the cast and filmmakers as they stroll down memory lane, revisiting the film’s creation. “The new version is just breathtaking; it’s like looking at an old photograph that’s suddenly come to life,” shared director Curtis, adding a personal touch about his nostalgic journey during the featurette. This fresh 4K offering is set to reach homes in the U.S. on November 21 and will unwrap in France on December 6.

When Can We Expect ‘Love Actually’ in 4K at Theaters?

The exact dates for the cinematic return of ‘Love Actually’ are wrapped up tighter than your secret Santa gift, but the rollout is expected to start in the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands in late November, before moving onto the US, Canada, and an array of other territories, including China, in December. The cherry on top for US and Canadian audiences will be a specially curated 10-minute introduction celebrating some of the film’s most memorable scenes. “This film is a cornerstone in our studio’s collection, and we’re profoundly thankful for our journey with Richard,” expressed Working Title co-chairmen Bevan and Fellner. “We’re crossing our fingers that this shiny new version of the film will be a festive gathering point to share joy and love this holiday season.”

Ready your popcorn and festive cheer for the official 4K 20th-anniversary trailer of ‘Love Actually’ showcased below:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Love Actually 20th Anniversary 4K

More about Love Actually 20th Anniversary 4K

• Love Actually 20th Anniversary Trailer
• 4K Restoration Process of Love Actually
• Love Actually Box Office Success
• The Making of Love Actually Featurette
• Theatrical Re-Release Information for Love Actually
• Home Video and Digital Release Dates for Love Actually
• Interviews with Love Actually Cast and Crew
• Love Actually in HDR and Dolby Vision
• Working Title Films and Love Actually