About a Boy (2002)

Director: Paul Weitz

Cast: Hugh Grant as Will, Nicholas Hoult as Marcus, Sharon Small as Christine, Madison Cook as Imogen, Jordan Cook as Imogen, Nicholas Hutchison as John, Ryan Speechley as Barney, Joseph Speechley as Barney, Toni Collette as Fiona, Natalia Tena as Ellie (as Nat Gastiain Tena), Laura Kennington as Ellie's Friend, Tanika Swaby as Ellie's Friend, Peter McNicholl as Ellie's Friend, Christopher Webster as Ellie's Friend, Ben Ridgeway as Lee, the Bully

I was a bit scared about what kind of treatment Chris and Paul Weitz had
given the great novel by Nick Hornby. I have to report they did a great job
in bringing it to the screen with the help of the screenwriter, Peter Hedges
III. It's amazing what they have accomplished in translating the book to the
screen and not lose focus in doing so. A great many Hollywood brains should
take note of what was accomplish in this film.

Hugh Grant strikes the right amount of hipness, confusion and complete lack
of responsibility in his interpretation of Will. He is an actor that brings
the right attitude in playing a man about London looking for women, no
matter where. He's a prowler looking for women who will fall prey to his
charms. Mr. Grant is just perfect for this role.

The biggest surprise though, was the amazing debut of Nicholas Hoult, who
just bowled us over as Marcus, the "boy" of the title. This young actor has
a great career ahead of him if the people behind him will steer him into the
right vehicles because he is a natural. He gives Mr. Grant a run for his
money. The chemistry of their time together on screen is basically what was
on the book while we were reading it.

Toni Collette plays another mother. Again, her interpretation of Fiona was
on target. Rachel Weisz adds beauty to the film as Rachel. Someone should
take a good look at this gorgeous woman and perhaps give her and Hugh Grant
another vehicle where they can shine once again.