Every holiday season, much like the coming of the snow, brings back nostalgia for classic films, and one standout example is Nancy Meyers’ beloved romantic comedy The Holiday. Released on November 29, 2006, the film has become synonymous with the festive season, largely thanks to its charming cast, engaging storyline, and relatable themes of love and heartbreak. The film features Cameron Diaz as Amanda Woods, who, heartbroken over her cheating boyfriend, embarks on an unexpected holiday to the English countryside. This year, as the film continues to capture hearts, it’s worth reflecting on its legacy and the impact it has had on its stars, particularly Diaz.
Ed Burns, who played Diaz's character’s duplicitous boyfriend Ethan, recalled the film’s tradition of being aired repeatedly during the holiday season. “I always know when it's getting close to Christmas because people will start saying, ‘Hey, The Holiday!’” Burns shared with PEOPLE. His character, a slick Hollywood film composer, serves as the catalyst for Amanda’s transformative trip to find love anew. When she finds out about his infidelities, she famously socks him one, leading to one of the movie’s memorable moments. Burns humorously noted, “People always ask me, ‘Did she really punch you?’ The answer? ‘She didn't. It was a bit of movie magic.’”
Though Ethan’s character left Amanda heartbroken, it set the stage for her romance with Graham, portrayed by Jude Law. Meanwhile, Kate Winslet’s character, Iris, also finds herself through the twist of fate the holiday provides. What seems like just another romantic comedy becomes rich with lessons about self-discovery, love, and taking risks.
Fast forward to the immediate aftermath of The Holiday’s release, and the film’s press tour was something of its own. The trio of stars—Diaz, Winslet, and Law—was decked out for the occasion, embodying the glam style of the mid-2000s. Diaz dazzled audiences with her glowing ensemble: a floral gold minidress accented with flutter sleeves, reflecting the chic yet playful vibe of the era. Her hair, transitioning from her signature blonde to a darker brunette, complemented her fresh look. The flickering lights of the press tour events paired perfectly with the film's romantic essence, making the stars look right at home as they celebrated their work.
Winslet’s transformation, too, was notable; she opted for shades of golden tones, styling herself in sleek black attire—a chic satin black skirt suit—that accentuated her sophisticated yet approachable personality. Jude Law suited up classically, wearing coordinated black apparel, reminiscent of the sartorial trends of the 2000s. Together, they evoked the flair of Hollywood’s golden era, setting the tone for festive screenings.
A highlight of the film's continued legacy is sparked by behind-the-scenes revelations from its stars. Recently, during interviews, Law admitted to something surprising: Amanda’s picturesque cottage—where much of the film's charm occurs—doesn’t actually exist. “That cottage doesn't exist,” he bluntly stated. Instead, director Meyers chose to build the cottage from scratch after being unable to find the right location. “We were shooting in the winter here. And every time I'd go in [the door], we'd cut, and we shot the interiors in L.A. about three months later,” Law explained. This kind of film trivia adds another layer of enchantment to the movie for viewers who adore sifting through the magic behind the magic.
Another exciting prospect had surfaced recently, as Jude Law expressed interest alongside Meyers for a possible sequel. During casual Instagram exchanges, he reenacted his iconic scene as ‘Mr. Napkin Head,’ teasing fans with the joy of revisiting characters they fell in love with 18 years ago. The conversations surrounding this potential sequel certainly heighten interest and nostalgia for fans.
Adding to the holiday spirit, the film’s costume designer Marlene Stewart recently shared insights about the iconic outfits worn by Diaz and her co-stars, highlighting how Amanda’s quiet luxury was remarkably influential for its time. The nostalgia surrounding the ensemble choices mirrors the burgeoning trend of revisiting beloved mid-2000 films, inspiring holiday fashion choices today.
While the surrounding glitz is captivating, the heart of The Holiday lies firmly within its narrative. It’s about taking the leap to understand oneself through the chaotic, unpredictable nature of love, all set against the backdrop of the serene yet enchanting English countryside. The film creates what many would attribute as the quintessential holiday feel-good movie experience; it’s engaging, humorous, and sparks the spirit of goodwill.
So come this holiday season, when you find yourself curled up with your loved ones, popcorn at hand, and the flickering glow of The Holiday lighting up your screen, know you’re partaking in cinema history—one laden with laughter, love, and leisure. Ed Burns, perhaps pivotal to this seasonal joy, invites us all to embrace the charm of the film. “Of course, had it not been for Ethan's cheating, Amanda may never have booked her idyllic cottage or fallen for the charming Graham.” Isn’t it delightful how these heartfelt stories come together to shape our holiday traditions?
