About a Boy

A journey of unexpected friendship unfolds between a slacker and a troubled boy.

Critics praise Hugh Grant's layered performance and a funny, moving story that tugs at the heartstrings without tipping into sentimentality.

• Will is drawn into guiding Marcus through adolescence despite his selfish habits
• The humor is acidic while the emotional core remains tender

• Paddingtonshared wry British romantic comedy tone with a reluctant mentor arc between a cynical adult and a lonely child
• Groundhog Dayshared cynical bachelor protagonist whose selfishness is gently undone by life lessons
• Notting Hillshared Hugh Grant style witty romantic comedy with emotional warmth beneath a sardonic surface

Directors

Chris Weitz, Paul Weitz

Release Date

2002-04-26

Runtime

101 min

Rating

6.7 / 10 (2496)

What is About a Boy about?

A womanizing, idle London bachelor is drawn into an unlikely friendship with a lonely twelve-year-old whose depressed mother needs help.

What is About a Boy like to watch?

Ember's analysis rates the pacing of About a Boy as measured, its intensity as mild and its storytelling as easy to follow.

Is About a Boy violent?

No — Ember's analysis finds no violence in About a Boy.

What did critics think of About a Boy?

Critics praise Hugh Grant's layered performance and a funny, moving story that tugs at the heartstrings without tipping into sentimentality.

Which films are like About a Boy?

Films with a similar feel include Paddington, Groundhog Day, and Notting Hill.

How long is About a Boy?

About a Boy runs 101 minutes.

Where can I watch About a Boy?

In United States, About a Boy streams on YouTube Free.