The script by Blackadder’s Richard Curtis and direction by Mike Newell give this comical romantic froth such an eager whisk that it stands up and assaults the taste buds.

It is smart and ironic, perceptive and observant, witty and poignant, moving and sad, all at the same time. This is more than an accomplishment for a romantic comedy. This is a small miracle.

Newell, a director like Stephen Frears who has no particular style but fits his undoubted expertise to the material, has to be congratulated not only for getting such good performances but for the pace and verve with which he lays out the absurdities.

It's that rare romantic comedy that deserved its riches, given its penchant for avoiding brain-dead formula almost every step of the way.