I like the friends, especially Spike, i think he's hilarious. they make the film more enjoyable.

PS - I just read all your recent comments, glad you like this movie, I am surprised it took you so long to see it. Even though I am a guy, and enjoy "guy movies", "Notting Hill" is also one of my favorites and I re-watch it at least once a year, for over 15 years now. My absolute favorite scene is when Will is walking along the street with the outdoor market and a year's worth of seasons change as he is walking, symbolizing how fast our lives pass until we are old but hopefully not alone.
i have this unspoken rule where if people tend to love a movie, i'm going to hate it. 'america's sweethearts' is absolutely hysterical to me and NO ONE likes that movie. that's why it took me so long to see it and frankly, i'm not surprised i wasn't impressed. it's promoted as a romantic comedy but i really didn't laugh.

Yes, Spike is an annoying character but I really like some of his scenes. Like the messages he forgets about, then sort of remembers.
But keep in mind he might be the most key character in the end. Remember when Will and his friends were in the failed restaurant, commiserating with Will and telling him he made the right decision to refuse Anna. Then Spike walks in and says "You daft prick!" That energizes everyone to go and hunt down Anna and let Will make things right.
PS - I just read all your recent comments, glad you like this movie, I am surprised it took you so long to see it. Even though I am a guy, and enjoy "guy movies", "Notting Hill" is also one of my favorites and I re-watch it at least once a year, for over 15 years now. My absolute favorite scene is when Will is walking along the street with the outdoor market and a year's worth of seasons change as he is walking, symbolizing how fast our lives pass until we are old but hopefully not alone.
.... TxMike ....