Universal Pictures paperwork hints at Love Actually sequel

A 'Love Actually' sequel could finally be in development.

Bosses at Universal Pictures have filed paperwork protecting the name in the strongest clue yet that a follow-up to the 2003 Christmas rom-com is in the pipeline.

The paperwork, filed by the film company last month, covers: "Entertainment services in the nature of a film series, television series, short form entertainment content, videos and podcasts in the field of news, sports, comedy, drama, music and variety content."

It was reported last year that director Richard Curtis had started work on a sequel with Hugh Grant and Liam Neeson keen to reprise their roles as Prime Minister David and grieving father Daniel respectively.

Richard explained that a sequel to the movie – which explores love stories among characters who are all connected in some way – would have to make changes to reflect modern society.

Speaking in a recent documentary, the 67-year-old filmmaker said: "Thank God, society is changing.

"My film, in some moments, is bound to feel, you know, out of date. I mean, there are things about the film, the lack of diversity makes me feel uncomfortable and a bit stupid."

Curtis had previously suggested that he did not plan to write any more films as he finds his work – which includes 'Four Weddings and a Funeral' and 'Notting Hill' – repetitive.

He told Jon Snow on the Snowcast: "I'm not sure I'll ever write another film because I like other people's films more than mine now.

"I remember the shock when I saw 'Notting Hill'. I thought, 'Oh my God it's exactly the same film as 'Four Weddings!'"

Richard also revealed that he was left irritated by the way his pictures were marketed.

He said: "When I see trailers for my movies, everything's in the wrong order, they give away the plots, they use shots that aren't in the film."