Closer (2004)

A stellar cast of Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Clive Owen and Natalie Portman star in this emotional rollercoaster about love, sex and anguish in the heart of London.

Portman plays Alice, a beautiful American stripper (pictured) whose life changes dramatically when, following an accident on a busy London street, she meets Dan (Law), a struggling author forced to make ends meet by working as an obituary writer. The pair soon become a couple, and their once empty lives take an upward turn. Dan is able to make a real go of his chosen career when he writes a successful novel inspired by Alice's turbulent life, and Alice showers him with affection.

However, their relationship hits the rocks when Dan meets Anna (Roberts), an American photographer who's been hired to shoot the cover of his book. Dan finds himself growing increasingly obsessed with Anna, despite the fact that she's reluctant to embark upon an affair with him. Meanwhile Anna becomes involved in a relationship of her own with a dermatologist called Larry (Owen), thanks to an online prank played by Dan. But, even when Anna and Larry go on to get married, Dan is unable to get Anna out of his head.

The lives of the four continue to intertwine in ever more complex and traumatic ways as they search for happiness in each other's arms, while only seeming to cause more heartache for themselves in the process.

Featuring strong direction from Mike Nichols and a powerful soundtrack, the screenplay was adapted by British writer Patrick Marber from his own hit West End play. Winning critical acclaim on both sides of the Atlantic, the film also made a big impact on the 2005 awards circuit, picking up a string of prestigious awards and nominations. Owen and Portman both received Golden Globes for their performances and went on to receive nominations at that year's Oscars.

A stirring and excellent drama, it's one of the most memorable movies of the last few years. Well worth watching.