No one could have foreseen that this glorified sitcom would change the nature of British screen comedy. The tale of a foppish bachelor, his eccentric friends and their romantic escapades is extremely funny, charming, poignant and never anything less than hugely enjoyable. But it also struck a chord with British viewers tiring of alternative stand-up and with global audiences, thanks to its unique sense of understated, self-deprecating wit. Neatly structured and full of genuine warmth for its characters, Richard Curtis's Oscar-nominated screenplay is superbly observed and well served by Mike Newell's deft direction. But more important to the film's enduring appeal is the individuality of the performances. Simon Callow and the Bafta-winning Kristin Scott Thomas are outstanding alongside star Hugh Grant, who became an overnight sensation as the tousled serial ditherer haplessly pursuing his star-crossed passion for enigmatic American Andie MacDowell.

Over the course of five social occasions, a committed bachelor must consider the notion that he may have discovered love.