An eighties comedy-adventure movie that has ‘aged incredibly well’ could provide the perfect antidote to Christmas fatigue with its ‘perfect pairing’ of leading Hollywood legends

If your weekend has been drenched in Christmas shopping and festive planning, this flirtatious action-packed classic which airs on Film 4 this evening, could be just what you need to escape the seasonal chaos.

Put your feet up and revel in the irresistible dalliance between Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner in Romancing the Stone as they embark on a jungle adventure in search of a kidnapped sister and some treasure. Despite being released more than 40 years ago, fans of the all-time favourite reckon it’s certainly stood the test of time with the lead actors’ humour and chemistry still huge draws in a movie that “never disappoints”.

Lonely New York romance novelist Joan Wilder receives an envelope containing a mysterious map which has been sent by her recently murdered brother-in-law. After her apartment is ransacked and her sister frantically calls telling her she has been kidnapped, she must travel to the Columbian city of Cartagena and take the map to kidnappers Ralph played by Danny DeVito and Ira (Zack Norman).

While en route to the Caribbean coastal region, the bus Joan is on crashes into a car and she is harassed by the same man who killed her sister’s husband. The other crash victim saves her and he turns out to be exotic bird smuggler Jack T Colton (Douglas). She promises to pay him if he helps her escape the jungle, but not before they embark on a high-octane adventure, pursued by criminals and embark on a passionate fling while in search of a treasured emerald.

Directed by Back to the Future’s Robert Zemeckis and produced by Douglas, the film was an unexpected hit both critically and commercially when it was released in 1984. It went on to win numerous awards, including two Golden Globes for Best Motion Picture and Best Actress for Turner.

Fans on Rotten Tomatoes where it scores 86% praise it for its timeless appeal. One wrote: “I was very surprised when I realized how well this film has aged. It plays with the usual clichés of the genre in a humorous and largely intelligent way. Still worth watching and a pleasure even in the 21st century.”

Another adored the lead performances: “Romancing the Stone is an absolute adventure classic. Michael Douglas and Kathleen Turner are the perfect pairing, bringing equal parts humor, chemistry, and excitement to the screen,” they posted. “The film strikes the perfect balance between action, romance, and comedy as the characters embark on a wild journey through the jungle. It’s fast-paced, thrilling, and full of fun surprises. The mix of adventure and heart makes it an all-time favorite. If you’re in the mood for a great time, this one never disappoints.”

A third tipped it for a romantic night in: “Fantastic date night movie. Along the lines of Temple of Doom. It has a little bit of everything; think Princess Bride vibes. Top notch desert island movie,” they shared.

Romancing the Stone airs on Film 4 at 4.15pm today, Sunday 21 December.