The intertwining tales of love, heartbreak, and hope in the beloved Christmas classic Love Actually have won the hearts of many. One tale, though, particularly the one involving Sarah and Karl, leaves viewers wondering what might have been.
At the office Christmas party, Sarah and Karl, who are respectively portrayed by Laura Linney and Rodrigo Santoro, have a fleeting but intense connection.
But in a recent appearance at the SCAD Atlanta TV festival, the actor defended Karl’s actions and clarified what actually transpired between his character and Sarah, who was played by Laura Linney.
When questioned about it, Santoro blushed and buried his face in his hands, but he insisted that Karl didn’t just leave Sarah.
According to the actor, “It was complicated. She was just not there. She couldn’t figure it out, and her brother had some mental illness, and she was dealing with that, so it was hard for her. He didn’t give up.”
Santoro advised moviegoers to speak with the film’s writer-director, Richard Curtis, if they have grievances about Karl’s departure. Santoro also offered a glimmer of hope for fans who were rooting for Karl and Sarah’s romance to flourish, stating, “If there was a Love Actually 2, Karl is still there thinking about Sarah.”
Unfortunately, Red Nose Day Actually, a short charity sequel, dashed those hopes when it became known that Sarah had wed Patrick Dempsey’s character, another man. Despite this setback, Santoro’s remarks present a fresh viewpoint on the motivations of his character and could allay some of the fans’ unanswered concerns and annoyances.
Love Actually
When Karl asks Sarah to dance, Sarah finally musters the courage to initiate contact after years of keeping a crush on him a secret. It seems as though they might finally have a chance at love as the two have a magical evening together.
However, their moment is cut short when Sarah’s phone rings, and she has to attend to her mentally ill brother. Karl graciously offers to stay and help, but Sarah insists that he leave, saying that it’s “complicated.” The two exchange a few more longing glances, but nothing ever comes of it.
Viewers are left wondering why Karl gave up on Sarah so easily. Was it because of the interruption? Was it because he realized that Sarah had too much baggage? Or was it simply a case of bad timing?
Whatever the reason, it’s clear that Sarah and Karl had a connection that deserved to be explored further. Their story is a reminder that sometimes, even the strongest connections can be cut short by circumstance.
As for Liam Neeson’s character’s iconic line, “Let’s go get the s– kicked out of us by love,” it seems to apply to Sarah and Karl more than anyone. They took a chance on love, but unfortunately, it didn’t work out. Still, their story is a poignant reminder of the power of love and the significance of taking risks in life and in love.
Rodrigo, who currently stars alongside Sarah Michelle Gellar in Paramount+’s Wolf Pack, can find comfort in his new co-star, as he jokes that he has finally found his “other Sarah.”
Different Stories of Love
Love Actually, the holiday classic directed by Richard Curtis, has become a beloved staple for many viewers since its release in 2003. The romantic comedy features a star-studded cast including Hugh Grant, Liam Neeson, Colin Firth, Emma Thompson, Keira Knightley, and many more.
The film tells ten interconnected stories of love during the Christmas season in London. The characters’ relationships vary from new love to long-term commitments, and each story explores the joys and heartbreaks that come with love.
One of the most memorable storylines follows the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom (played by Grant) falling in love with his household staff member, Natalie (Martine McCutcheon). Their relationship blossoms through charming encounters, including a scene in which Grant dances through 10 Downing Street to “Jump” by the Pointer Sisters.
Another storyline features a widower named Daniel (Neeson) struggling to connect with his stepson following his wife’s death. The heartwarming story culminates in a touching scene where the two bond over their love for Daniel’s late wife.
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Christmas Music
Love Actually has become famous for its use of Christmas music, including Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” which plays during the film’s opening credits.
Other iconic music moments include Olivia Olson’s rendition of “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” which takes center stage during a touching scene where Sam (Thomas Brodie-Sangster) declares his love for his schoolmate, Joanna (Olson).
The film has been praised for its ability to capture the various forms of love and relationships, from romantic love to familial love, and the challenges that come with them. The all-star cast delivers standout performances, making each storyline feel genuine and relatable.
Despite some criticism for the film’s portrayal of certain characters and relationships, Love Actually remains a beloved holiday classic. The film has inspired countless parodies and adaptations, including a short sequel made for charity in 2017 titled “Red Nose Day Actually.”
Whether you’re an avid fan of romantic comedies or just looking for a heartwarming holiday film, Love Actually is a must-watch that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy inside.
Photo: EW
