“World Trade Center”, the new romantic comedy from Paramount Pictures, is easily this years “You’ve Got Mail”. Hollywood has finally recognized that the dramatic events of September 11th provide the perfect backdrop for amusing romantic misunderstandings, flirtatious battles of the sexes, and yes, even a few tastefully rendered fart jokes.

There are so many things about this film to admire that I scarcely know where to begin. Firstly, the chemistry between JAP-py Flight 93 passenger Jackie Goldin (a winsome Kate Hudson) and bumbling hijacker Mohammad Atta (Ben Affleck) is completely enchanting. From the moment they “meet cute” (he holds a knife against her throat while threatening her in Farsi; her Pomeranian pees on his box cutter), we see the spark of attraction, and are rooting for these two kids through the whole movie. Adding to the fun is the performance of Dakota Fanning as the adorable but sassy moppet that brings them together. A clever counterbalance is provided by Rosie O'Donnell, Jackie's bitchy best friend who has reservations about the budding relationship and is not afraid to voice them, in frank and often hilarious fashion. And, the scene where the two lovers join the mile high club is nothing short of hot.


But “World Trade Center” recognizes that drama was also occurring back on the ground on September 11th. The goings on in the Twin Towers are engagingly brought to life by Kathy Griffin and Queen Latifah, two sous chefs at Windows of the World, fighting over sexy firefighter Hugh Grant. If you’re like me, you can never get enough of Grant’s foppish, stammering charm, displayed here in full force. And their threeway in the restaurant’s back kitchen is genuinely hot.


The trilogy of romantic entanglements is completed by none other than Shirley MacLaine, a Pentagon general who must guide America through its greatest crisis, while sparring with ex-husband and National Security chief Jack Nicholson. As the seriousness of the situation dawns on these characters, their sarcastic wit grows to match it. The comic timing of these two pros is impeccable, and MacLane belts out yet another memorable performance that makes you almost forget you’re sitting through the ultimate chick flick. And who says you can’t be sexy even at 90+?

To finish this spicy concoction off, the film contains many authentic and respectful touches. It remains fairly faithful to Nora Ephron's 2001 book upon which it is based. And, members of families killed on September 11th are included as back-up singers in the film's theme song, a bouncy anthem reminiscent of Katrina and the Waves' "Walking on Sunshine".

All I can say is, watch out, “When Harry Met Sally”! “World Trade Center” is the new one to beat, at least until this holiday season, when Kate Hudson, leader of the Knesset, trades barbs with Hezbollah strong man Hugh Grant, in “Take a Left at Gaza”.


Parents guide: This charming romantic caper is rated NC-17, due to graphic and disturbing violence, strong sexual content, full frontal nudity, and an extended genital torture sequence that may disturb children under six.