Johnny Simmons: Friends with Benefits

This film does have a lot going for it. First, two hot young actors. Then there is Patricia Clarkson as (Milas Kunis) Jamie's mom. And award winning actor Richard Jenkins as (Justin Timberlake) Dylan's Dad. So what's the problem?

Perhaps too much TMI about Jamie and Dylan's relationship that's physical. Oh, a laugh, maybe here and there. Yet, Kunis comes off a bit bitchy, but then again, she's a 'headhunter', which I have to wonder if they are as popular in New York City, as they used to be. Its just here we have a story about two people in high powered jobs that can't find love. And yes, it seems to be a cliche. But when you look at our economy at the moment, well, who cares about people like that? Everybody is thinking the simplicity of life. Just wanting a job. So I can't say this was the perfect timing for a movie with characters like this. On the other hand, you might be thinking..a great time to escape our troubesome woes. Its a cute movie.

Granted, its a bi-coastal film. Some beautiful landmarks to pull you in. Woody Harrelson as the gay sports editor that Timberlake works with is a bit harsh. Actually, harsh is the word I think of, watching this film. Still it wasn't too awful. Although, Clarkson comes off a bit cliche too as Jamie's mom who just can't seem to get her act together, yet still comes off amazingly radiant with a very cool wardrobe. Perhaps the real answer to Jamie's problem..is... she needs to find her Dad. But it might be an undertaking to find someone to fit that role.

So, these two get it on..in bed..His place. Her place. Then Jamie decides she wants to start dating again. This isn't exactly what Dylan wants to hear, but he makes light of it. Dang, if Jamie doesn't find a dude in the park. As if you'd want to get a date with a stranger in the park? But this is none other than Bryan Greenberg, a doctor no less. Of course, its a relationship that feels so perfect, and yet it fizzles. No one seems to know why. Of course, Jamie is used to this happening. Still Dylan is Jamie's friend, to cheer her up, he takes her home for the 4th to meet his folks. And you think, this is the moment they figure out..they are in love. But oh no..they are just too smart for that.

This film doesn't have the quirkiness of NO STRINGS ATTACHED. No one said that movie would work, either. But it did. I'm not saying this film is a failure. Because you will find some laughs. And if you like Flash Mobs..well, here you go. Also one of my favorite songs is in the film, Closing Time. The soundtrack is pretty good. There is a lot of interesting things about the movie. Yet there is something smug about this film too even if it is sort of cute.

STORYLINE: While trying to avoid the clichés of Hollywood romantic comedies, Dylan (Timberlake) and Jamie (Kunis) soon discover however that adding the act of sex to their friendship does lead to complications.