I picked up this book haphazardly while I was at work one night when I had absolutely nothing to read. Hornby writes in a carefree, easy manner that is appealing on a casual basis. Having seen the movie too many times to count, it is surprising how similar the book and movie are to each other. Whole sentences are repeatedly taken directly from the text. It made reading the book only okay since I knew what was going to happen - with the exception of the ending between Marcus and Eli.
As far as the movie goes, this is the first film since Sense and Sensibility where Hugh Grant did not act like a mumbling wuss. While I do appreciate the finer distinction of English acting, I cringe at the majority of his spineless characters. (Dare I mention “Notting Hill.” In “About a Boy” the movie, Grant’s acting is strong and his character has personality. He is excellent at the sort of “bad guy” wannabe role. Toni Collett and Rachel Weisz’ performances are exemplar as usual and it’s nice to see English actors in English roles.
While I guess I’m partial to the movie since I saw it first, both mediums provide a perfect mix of comic relief and thoughtfulness. Again, Hornby does an excellent job of portraying modern existence in a not so disturbing way. And, thanks to him, I will watch Hugh Grant movies again.
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