'Love Actually' director says film's 'lack of diversity' makes him feel 'uncomfortable'

Naledi Ushe, USA TODAY
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"Love Actually" was and still is a cultural phenomenon. But it does have its pitfalls, director Richard Curtis can admit.

Curtis appeared in an ABC "20/20" special Tuesday titled "The Laughter & Secrets of Love Actually: 20 Years Later" to mark the anniversary of the 2003 holiday romcom. The movie, set in London, follows the love lives of eight different couples in the month before Christmas.

When asked by host Diane Sawyer if there is anything that makes him "wince," the director said, "There are things that you would change, but thank God society is changing."

"My film is bound in some moments to feel out of date," Curtis added. "The lack of diversity makes me feel uncomfortable and a bit stupid."

Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln star in a scene from the holiday film "Love Actually."
Keira Knightley and Andrew Lincoln star in a scene from the holiday film "Love Actually."

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The film's top cast, including stars Hugh Grant, Keira Knightley, Colin Firth, Liam Neeson, Bill Nighy, Rowan Atkinson, Emma Thompson, Laura Linney and Martine McCutcheon, were all in or seeking heterosexual relationships. Chiwetel Ejiofor is also the only leading cast member of "Love Actually" who is non-white.

"There is such extraordinary love that goes on every minute in so many ways, all the way around the world, and makes me wish my film was better," the director said during the "20/20" special.

"Love Actually" debuted with a $6.8 million opening and was ranked only sixth, according to Box Office Mojo. However, like fan favorite Halloween film "Hocus Pocus," the movie only gained popularity over the years.

Hugh Grant and Martine McCutcheon in a scene from "Love Actually."
Hugh Grant and Martine McCutcheon in a scene from "Love Actually."

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Curtis added that he would like to see more movies about happiness rather than violence, specifically calling out serial killer films. "There'll be a million people falling in love, feeling it's the most interesting moment of their lives. (There are many) good deeds inside families and good deeds inside communities," he said. "I do think the way to think about life (is) that every day has potential in all its simplicity."

"The Laughter & Secrets of Love Actually: 20 Years Later" is now streaming on Hulu.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Love Actually' director reflects on 'uncomfortable' lack of diversity