In 2003, Renée Zellweger and Ewan McGregor starred in Down with Love, a vibrant, retro-inspired romantic comedy that flew under the radar at the time but has since cultivated a loyal cult following. Released during a peak period for both actors—Zellweger was fresh from her Oscar-nominated turns in Bridget Jones’s Diary and Chicago, while McGregor was juggling Star Wars sequels and his memorable role in Moulin Rouge!—the film didn’t quite resonate with audiences in the way its creators hoped. Despite its lackluster box office performance, Down with Love has aged remarkably well, thanks to its ambitious homage to the stylish, witty romantic comedies of the 1950s and early 1960s, such as the iconic Pillow Talk. Now, as part of the Criterion Channel’s February series on New York love stories, the film is getting a well-deserved spotlight, just in time for Valentine’s Day and the release of a new Bridget Jones movie.
Down with Love tells the story of Barbara Novak (Zellweger), a best-selling author who arrives in a meticulously crafted, larger-than-life New York City to promote her controversial new book, Down with Love. The book advocates for female independence and casual sex, a bold statement for its time, and it quickly captures the attention of Catcher Block (McGregor), a charismatic but somewhat egotistical writer for a men’s magazine. Catcher is assigned to profile Barbara but has ulterior motives—he wants to expose her philosophy as a fraud. Disguising himself as astronaut Zip Martin, he sets out to charm her, only to find himself unexpectedly falling for her frank, forward-thinking approach to life and love. The film is rounded out by a talented supporting cast, including David Hyde Pierce and Sarah Paulson, who add to the movie’s playful energy and retro charm.
While the plot of Down with Love is predictable in its broad strokes—it’s a classic tale of two people manipulating each other until they realize their true feelings—the film shines in its execution. Zellweger and McGregor are at their most charming here, their chemistry crackling with the kind of wit and timing that feels plucked straight from the golden age of screwball comedies. The film’s mid-century aesthetic is equally impressive, with lavish production design, clever costumes, and a keen attention to detail that recreates the glamour of 1960s New York. From the fake but expressive backdrops of the city to the meticulous styling of every interior, Down with Love feels like a time capsule, capturing the spirit of an era while still maintaining a modern sensibility that keeps it feeling fresh.
Director Peyton Reed, best known at the time for his work on the cult classic Bring It On, walks a fine line in Down with Love between homage and originality. The film is unabashedly a love letter to the screwball comedies and sex farces of the past, but it also manages to carve out its own identity. The dialogue is sharp and full of double entendres, the pacing is quick and lively, and the film’s use of visual gags and clever editing adds to its playful charm. While it occasionally veers into sly, self-aware humor that feels just a bit too modern for its 1960s setting, the film largely succeeds in its mission to revive the craft of classic romantic comedies. It’s a throwback that doesn’t just mimic the past but actively engages with it, using the freedom of a big-budget, star-driven comedy to celebrate the artistry of a bygone era.
Comparing Down with Love to other romantic comedies of the early 2000s, like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, highlights just how unique it is. While the latter film epitomized the era’s softer, more sentimental take on the genre—complete with slowed-down dialogue and a heavy emphasis on emotional payoffs—Down with Love embraces the snap and energy of classic screwball, even as it updates the sensibilities for a modern audience. It’s a film that feels more at home alongside the likes of Pillow Talk or The Apartment than it does with its 2000s contemporaries, and that’s part of its enduring appeal. In an era where many romantic comedies have become formulaic and visually uninspired, Down with Love stands out as a bold, stylish celebration of the genre’s rich history.
Today, Down with Love feels more relevant than ever, both as a loving tribute to the films of the past and as a reminder of what romantic comedies can achieve when they’re made with care, creativity, and a genuine affection for the genre. Its blend of timeless wit, striking visuals, and star power makes it a must-watch for anyone who loves romantic comedies—or just great movies in general. And with its recent inclusion on the Criterion Channel, there’s never been a better time torediscover this hidden gem and see why it’s become a favorite among film enthusiasts. Down with Love may not have been a box office hit when it first debuted, but its charm, intelligence, and joyful celebration of love and relationships have ensured that it will always have a place in the hearts of rom-com fans.
