My Weekend Crush

Of the many reasons to adore Emma Thompson, one of the most compelling is her sense of humor. That wit, razor sharp yet gloriously goofy, comes through in every role, even her most dramatic. It makes her a joy to watch and one of the few stars I genuinely think would be a blast to sit at a bar with and have a few pints. I imagine the laughing would be so hearty that the next day your face and stomach muscles would ache. Of course, her mirth in no way diminishes her tremendous talent. On screen, she has an exquisite strength. Her wordless breakdown in “Love Actually” ranks among the most heartbreaking ever captured on film. Her range dazzles -- from an Austen heroine to a Shakespearean muse, an Angel to a housewife, a nanny to a nutty professor. Plus, you have to admire her wiliness to look silly -- be it with warts, Coke-bottle glasses or stripper poles (you must see her pole dance -- you must). Also, has anyone else noticed her affinity for lesbian haircuts? A brilliant woman who can laugh at herself and has dykey hair? How could you not love her? Happy weekend, all.

NOTE: This photo is from the book “Women Before 10 a.m.” It’s a fantastic find if you like looking at pictures of beautiful women lying about in bed all tousled and sexy. Not that anyone here would like that sort of thing. At all.