Today’s quick review: Kate & Leopold. In 1876, Leopold (Hugh Jackman), an English duke visiting America in search of a wife, follows Stuart (Liev Schrieber), an explorer from the present, through a rip in time and lands in modern-day New York. As Stuart worries about getting his unexpected guest back to the past, Leopold falls in love with Kate (Meg Ryan), a marketing researcher who never found the right man.
Kate & Leopold is a fantasy romance that pairs a 19th-century nobleman with a 21st-century woman. Genteel and courteous, Leopold gives Kate what she never realized she wanted. The movie earns points for a light premise, Hugh Jackman’s performance as Leopold, and a fun supporting cast. While the romance itself is not spectacular, Kate & Leopold’s interesting premise and likable male lead make it a fair pick for fans of the genre.
The arguable weak point of the movie is Kate. Where Leopold adapts quickly to life in the present, Kate refuses to believe he is who he says. Her skepticism delays the romance considerably, and even at her most romantic, she never opens up much. So while Kate & Leopold does end up with Kate getting swept off her feet by a true gentleman, it takes its time getting there without working to establish their personal connection.
Give Kate & Leopold a shot if you are looking for a romantic comedy with a historical twist. How much you get out of its romance will vary, but the figure of Leopold is refreshing enough to carry the movie. Steer clear if you are looking for a full-fledged time travel story or a snappier romance.
For a romance with a fully historical setting, try Pride & Prejudice. For a love story set in historical New York, try Winter’s Tale. For a romantic comedy about a career woman who re-evaluates her priorities, try The Proposal.
[6.4 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0035423/). I give it a 6.5 for a good setup and decent execution.