“It seems to me that love is everywhere. Often, it’s not particularly dignified or newsworthy, but it’s always there,” says Hugh Grant’s dulcet tones at the beginning of the 2003 Christmas film, Love Actually. Well, Hugh, this time love actually is rather newsworthy, as we’ve heard South West London stalwart, The Clapham Grand, will host a Love Actually movie marathon this December. The day (December 14) is billed as 12 whole hours of Love Actually fun!
But there’s only one film, so how does the Love Actually marathon work?
Valid question. One I, a die-hard fan of the film, asked upon hearing the news. Well, sadly, there are no surprise sequels here – not even the Comic Relief mini sequel – but instead, the beloved Christmas movie will be shown twice throughout the day, with various other Love Actually-related activities taking place in the venue too. This will all take place within a 12-hour period.
The Love Actually movie marathon will kick off at 1pm and coincide with one of The Clapham Grand’s raucous brunches, with a festive twist. The usual revelry of sing-alongs, a live host, prizes, dance-offs, and balloon drops will take place, but this time, the brunch dishes will consist of pigs in blankets, hotdogs and nachos, courtesy of Hot Beige (vegan options available). The drinks will include mulled wine alongside the Grand’s cocktails.
The second showing will come later that evening (6.30pm to arrive, 7.30pm to start), during a Love Actually Movie Night, where once again, mulled wine, pigs in blankets, and mince pies will be on offer. However, there will be the addition of snow machines, as well as costume competitions for the best dressed – lobsters, like Natalie’s niece, and giant mince pies, are encouraged. During both film showings, the film will be projected on a huge 25-foot HD screen.
Straight after Movie Night, The Clapham Grand will transform into a throwback Christmas special club night, blasting 00s and 10s tunes for the rest of the evening. Expect to hear tunes like Too Lost In You and other hits from the film, as well as our festive favourites.
So, there you go, love actually is all around us – especially if you head to The Clapham Grand on December 14.