Review: 'Friends With Benefits' Is Not Your Typical Rom-Com

By Michael Lopez

Honestly, isn't it refreshing to hear curse words and see nudity in a big budget movie? Too often summer films gets slapped with that notorious "PG-13" stamp, so more teenagers can get into the seats. But not Friends With Benefits. This relationship flick seems to be very proud of its "R" rating and uses its liberties for some great comedic fun.

Defining itself as an "anti-romantic comedy," Friends definitely skewers a lot of the stereotypes you're used to seeing in your average chick flick. In fact, one of the movie's funniest running gags involves a faux rom com movie (titled I Love You, I Love New York) that the characters wind up watching on cable TV.

Justin Timberlake's Dylan definitely carries himself with a cocky swagger in the beginning of the film. After breaking up with a controlling ex (played hilariously by Emma Stone), he decides to relocate his life and accept a new gig in New York City.

Jamie, Mila Kunis' character, is the headhunter who lands Dylan his east coast dream job and becomes his first real "friend" in the city. And writers David A. Newman and Keith Merryman did a fantastic job working out the banter between both of them. Jamie is able to come off tough, yet vulnerable in all the right moments.

Dylan's confident façade begins to crack too, and soon these Friends begin seeing a deeper side to one another. And, as you can expect, they eventually cross over into the Benefits territory, taking their platonic relationship into the bedroom.

The interesting thing about Friends is, its rejection of the chick flick mold actually makes you start to yearn for it after a while. Eventually you begin rooting for Dylan and Jamie and, though they have their ups and downs, you seriously hope they fall in love. Does Friends With Benefits ultimately surrender to its own clichés? Perhaps, but not without a few R-Rated zingers thrown in for fun.

Bottom Line: Though Friends is Justin's first "leading man" type role, he pulls it off with flying colors. Kunis' sarcastic wit is also very charming. But, if you're looking for a real LOL scene-stealer, wait until you see what Woody Harrelson brings to the table! It’s funny, it's fast-paced, and it's got just the right amount of heart. Definitely make Friends with this movie.

Are you planning on watching Friends With Benefits? Sound off in the comments or @MTV3.

Tags Blogger: Michael Lopez, Friends With Benefits, Justin Timberlake, Mila Kunis, Movie Reviews, Movies & CineMás