Alfie, released in theaters on Nov. 5, 2004, reimagines the classic story of the charismatic womanizer Alfie Elkins, now played by Jude Law.
A Cockney limo driver in Manhattan, Alfie navigates his life through a series of shallow romantic encounters, avoiding commitment and embracing a carefree lifestyle.
Alongside his “semi-regular-quasi-sort-of-girlfriend” Julie (Marisa Tomei), Alfie juggles fleeting relationships including with the unhappily married Dorie (Susan Sarandon) and others, living life on his own terms.
However, Alfie’s effortless seduction begins to crumble as he faces the repercussions of his actions: erectile dysfunction triggered by stress, unexpected emotional attachments, and the realization that he carries the responsibility for a child with Lonette (Nia Long), his best friend Marlon’s (Omar Epps) girlfriend.
As Alfie’s world unravels, he confronts the pain he’s caused in the lives of those around him, including fractured friendships and lost loves.
His journey from casual playboy to self-aware man forms the emotional core of the film, with heartfelt moments and honest reflections marking his path toward maturity.
The 2004 Alfie drew attention for Law’s charming yet vulnerable portrayal, which added new depth to the iconic role originally played by Michael Caine in the 1966 original film.
The strong supporting cast, including Tomei, Sarandon and Jane Krakowski, enriches the portrayal of women navigating Alfie’s world, making the film a nuanced study of love and loss in contemporary life.
Sienna Miller also stands out as Nikki, one of Alfie’s intense relationships.
Gedde Watanabe appears as Wing, Alfie’s boss.
The film modernizes the narrative with frank discussions of sexuality, consequence, and emotional complexity, reflecting early 21st-century sensibilities while maintaining the essence of Alfie’s charismatic recklessness.
The film was co-written, directed, and produced by Charles Shyer (Private Benjamin, Irreconcilable Differences, Baby Boom, Father of the Bride, I Love Trouble).
Sienna Miller in Alfie (Photo/Paramount Pictures)
Reception for Alfie
Alfie grossed $6.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing fifth at the box office.
The film would gross $35.1 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave Alfie three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
Though critics were mixed—some praising Law’s performance and the film’s emotional honesty, others lamenting its uneven tone, Alfie succeeded in bringing the story’s themes to a new generation.
Its exploration of masculinity, relationships, and accountability resonates with audiences seeking more than just romantic comedy tropes.
Alfie stands as a thoughtful remake that balances wit, charm, and drama, reminding viewers that even those who live superficially must at some point face their own truths and reckon with the costs of their choices.
