Music and Lyrics (2007)

I liked this movie. It's a somewhat unusual romantic comedy. It centers almost completely on the creative process of writing a song. I know nothing about song writing, so I don't know if it could happen as portrayed in the film, but I bought it. Also, the chemistry between the leads--Hugh Grant and Drew Barrymore--is palpable. I loved the way Grant played this--his character could have been smarmy and smug, but (full credit to the writers) he's a charming, lovable, not-quite-past-his-prime, hack. Someone who is actually content being a has-been. Willing to coast along, living a comfortable life, drawing on past glories and not getting too cynical or bitter about it. It's refreshing. And Barrymore, well, these days she can really do no wrong. But is she doing enough? I like her in comedies, but why isn't she a stronger lead, why isn't she getting bigger parts? Does no one know how to write for women? Oh, right, never mind. This was a fun and satisfying watch; I recommend it.

A note on my pet peeve regarding the age gap between male and female leads: the one here is quite wide (15 years). However, it's integral to the plot, so no objections.