Review of Friends with Benefits (2011) by Walter M — 18 Dec 2012

Having just been dumped by his girlfriend(Emma Stone) over a misunderstanding at a John Mayer concert, Dylan Harper(Justin Timberlake) could probably use a fresh start. And when a great job offer arrives from New York, he jumps at the chance, being greeted by Jamie Rellis(Mila Kunis), the corporate recruiter for GQ Magazine, at the baggage carousel at the airport. Overall, she does her best to make him feel welcome, showing him all of her favorite New York sights. In return, he accepts the job offer to become the new art director. Over time, they become friends, but do not go any further emotionally, since she too is also getting over a painful breakup, this time involving "Pretty Woman." That does not stop them from having sex together, though.

Admittedly, Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis may not be my first, second, third or maybe even 50th choice for a romantic pairing but they work well enough together in the generally entertaining "Friends with Benefits." Add in some cool cameos, good support from Richard Jenkins and Patricia Clarkson and a seriously gonzo turn from Woody Harrelson and stir gently. And I like how the movie uses New York and Los Angeles to their best advantages, featuring characters who ride the subway. But for a movie that seems so interested in deconstructing romantic comedy cliches for most of its length, it is very disappointing for it to fall headlong into a predictable third act cliche of its own making. After all, why wreck a good thing?