Review of Friends with Kids (2012) by Ashley W — 30 Mar 2013

Friends with Kids is not without its charms. Star Jennifer Westfeldt also wrote and directed. She was responsible for co-writing and co-starring in the hit independent film Kissing Jessica Stein with Heather Juergensen in 2001.

Overall Westfeldt has fashioned a humorous twist on modern relationships. Her non-traditional take is entertaining. She brings a vulnerability that makes her character Julie likable even when she becomes self absorbed.

Her flaws seem minor when contrasted with her friend Jason. He's unapologetically arrogant. Actor Jason Scott is often typecast as unlikable types and Jason is sometimes difficult to defend here. While we never question his unfailing support toward Julie, his egotistical personality can make him a bit hard to champion over the course of an entire movie.

He's not a bad person. At times his humor can be endearing. It's during those moments that we understand what Julie sees in him. Jennifer Westfeldt's reflection on adults in their late 30s and having children is just captivating enough to hold our attention.

While Friends with Kids occasionally lapses into superficial and predictable situations, the way the narrative plays out is frequently funny and insightful.