As I sat down to watch this film, I expected a Merchant Ivory film (Remains of the Day, Howard's End), which is fine. What I got, however, was something much lighter, which is also fine.

Rupert Everett (My Best Friend's Wedding) plays a lonely socialite in search of the perfect wife. He has many prospects, but seems to be holding back. This film is sort of a gentler Dangerous Liasions and a less tragic Age of Innocence. It's a lush, light romantic comedy that benefits form a quick pace and warm, witty performances.

Everett really carries the movie while Minnie Driver and Cate Blanchett seem to be on cruise control. Jeremy Northam does a good job, but was much more effective in David Mamet's The Winslow Boy.

An Ideal Husband is breezy entertainment that is surprisingly small in scope. It's enjoyable while you're watching it, but chances are you won't remember it at the year's end.