‘Masterpiece’ rom-com set in London that ‘changed lives’ is airing for free

The 1999 “masterpiece” starring two screen legends is widely considered one of the best rom-coms ever made
Lucas Hill-Paul Content Editor
21:41, 27 Nov 2025
Rom-com fans consider Notting Hill to be one of the very best(Image: UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
Film 4 will be broadcasting one of the finest romantic comedy films ever produced tomorrow (Friday, 28th November), making it the perfect opportunity for a rewatch.
As evenings grow darker and Christmas planning intensifies, audiences will be seeking the ideal comfort viewing to settle down with after a busy day.
Channel 4’s dedicated film network has the answer, presenting the perfect Friday evening entertainment tomorrow.
Those unable to catch the live showing needn’t worry – it will remain accessible on Channel 4’s online platform for a limited period following its Film 4 broadcast at 6:40pm.
The beloved rom-com in question is Notting Hill, the 1999 masterpiece featuring Julia Roberts and Hugh Grant that cinema enthusiasts continue to adore decades on, reports the Express.
A famous actress and a bookseller fall in love in this British classic(Image: UNIVERSAL PICTURES)READ MORE: Apple TV’s Pluribus filming locations unveiled including neighbourhood built from scratchREAD MORE: Edinburgh-born star takes the lead in ‘must-see’ Sky thriller from Peaky Blinders director
Hollywood icon Roberts portrays celebrated actress Anna Scott, who unexpectedly begins a romance with bumbling London bookshop proprietor William Thacker.
The cast also includes renowned performers such as Hugh Bonneville, Emma Chambers, Rhys Ifans and Tim McInnerny, with Notting Hill frequently regarded as amongst the greatest British cinema achievements.
One admirer on X described it as “the best there is. It never gets old.
“The acting the story the laughs the butterflies the hurt the confession like its soooo good. and the soundtrack and score? MY HEART.”
Another devoted viewer revisited the film recently after years away and found themselves utterly enchanted, sharing: “Rewatched Notting Hill for the first time in centuries on a plane the other day and immediately turned around and watched it again at home tonight.
One of Hugh Grant’s greatest roles is available to watch for free this weekend(Image: UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
“Might rewatch every day in general why not. Top tier rom com, one of the best ones (maybe my favorite if I’m being honest).”
The acclaim extended to Letterboxd, where one reviewer declared: “Easily the very best romantic comedy of the 90’s, this standout is smart, brilliantly cast and impeccably written.
“Julia and Hugh are the epitome of the Hollywood leading couple, and they are backed up by such a lovely and memorable supporting cast (these guys ought to have their own sitcom).”
Another viewer concurred: “This is not only one of my favorite romantic comedies, it is also one of my favorite movies period. Of all the Hugh Grant movies, I watch this one and Love Actually the most.
“Having seen both of those classic Grant movies, I give this one the edge. There are no dead spots in this one. The comedy still works, even as it approaches being a quarter of a century old.
Rom-com fans consider Notting Hill to be one of the very best(Image: UNIVERSAL PICTURES)
“Grant and Julia Roberts are awesome as a screen couple. Final thought: Simply one of the best movies I have seen and a member of my Top 100 movies of all-time.”
A final admirer expressed: “Rewatching this masterpiece in honour of valentine’s day being two days away and I feel like I’ve found a new love for this film than I had before.
“This might’ve just changed my life and worked its way into my top ten.”
Fancy revisiting this genre-defining love story this weekend?
Notting Hill is airing at 6:40pm on Friday, 28th November on Film 4 and will be available to stream on Channel 4.




