Friends with Benefits, in many ways, follows the same script as every other chick flick released in the past hundred years. Two people destined to be with one another come up with excuses and face a number of obstacles before they realize that a relationship is inevitable (and the best decision). Jamie (Mila Kunis) is a headhunter in New York, and, when she recruits Dylan (Justin Timberlake) to work for a major company in the city, the two become connected. Like the title of the film implies, the two co-workers/friends plan to stick strictly to a diet of sex and nothing else, no emotional attachment, no jealousy, etc. As they become even closer, things that were originally off the table come into play and their realities begin to spiral emotionally out of control.
A beautifully constructed cast brings this story of love and suffering to life. Kunis and Timberlake are surrounded by Hollywood superstars like Woody Harrelson (Tommy), Jenna Elfman (Annie) and Andy Samberg (Quincy). These stars perfectly compliment the two protagonists and their impeccable ability to convey emotion. Even with the number of incredible actors present in this film, they never outshine the two leads, creating the perfect dynamic. Even better than the rest of the cast compliment the leads, Kunis and Timberlake feed off of one another so wonderfully. The two possess a certain quirkiness that transcends the length of the film and draws in audiences. They are comical, they are awkward and their honesty and uniqueness is incredibly refreshing. They do not feel like characters on a screen and they do not feel like everything out of their mouths is scripted, they came across as genuine and are relatable.
The impeccable acting ability of Timberlake and Kunis (and the entire supporting cast) is part of what makes this chick flick-esque comedy enjoyable. Their relatability engages audiences and entertains them from beginning to end. On top of the enjoyable performances, the story, while essentially the same as every other chick flick, does possess unique twists and turns along the way that helps to separate it from the pack. The slew of characters help to create depth within the story and the very real scenarios hit home for a number of viewers. Family issues and mental health are just some of the topics that director Will Gluck and the five different writers touch on throughout the film that help to connect with audiences and allow those viewers to appreciate what is in front of them.
Will Gluck, with the help of his talented writers and actors, develops a film that dabbles in the realm of chick flicks and rom coms, but stretches those boundaries and invites audiences from all walks of life. The impeccable acting and the abundance of real-world scenarios allow audiences to look past the monotony of the aforementioned genres and appreciate Friends with Benefits. The entire cast and crew can be proud of their finished product and of the fact that they are able to so thoroughly reach their audiences on a multitude of levels.
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