Friends with Benefits, released in theaters on July 22, 2011, takes a contemporary, often cynical, look at modern relationships, particularly the idea of casual sex without emotional entanglement. With a sharp script and undeniable chemistry between its leads, the film offers a witty and surprisingly heartfelt take on the classic “will they/won’t they” trope.
The story centers on Jamie Rellis (Mila Kunis), a New York-based executive recruiter, and Dylan Harper (Justin Timberlake), a Los Angeles-based art director whom Jamie recruits for a job at GQ magazine in New York. Both are recently out of relationships and disillusioned with the traditional romantic comedy clichés. They quickly become close friends, sharing their frustrations about love and dating.
Convinced that emotional attachment ruins relationships, they decide to embark on a purely physical arrangement: “friends with benefits,” with a strict no-feelings rule. They believe they can enjoy the physical intimacy without the complications of romance.
However, as they spend more time together, sharing personal stories and experiencing life’s ups and downs, the boundaries they’ve set for themselves begin to blur.
Their journey is complicated by their eccentric families and friends. Jamie’s free-spirited mother, Lorna (Patricia Clarkson), offers unconventional advice, while Dylan’s father, Mr. Harper (Richard Jenkins), suffers from early-onset Alzheimer’s, adding a poignant layer to Dylan’s character.
The film also features a hilarious supporting cast, including Woody Harrelson as Tommy Bollinger, a sports editor with an unusual outlook on life; Jenna Elfman as Dylan’s sister, Annie; and Bryan Greenberg as Parker, one of Jamie’s dates.
Emma Stone and Andy Samberg make memorable cameo appearances as the exes in the film’s opening scenes.
Former professional snowboarder and skateboarder Shaun White makes a cameo as himself and Jason Segal has an uncredited appearance as Brice.
A very similar-themed film, No Strings Attached, starring Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman, was released in theaters on Jan. 21 of the same year.
Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake in Friends with Benefits (Photo/Screen Gems)
Reception for Friends with Benefits
Friends with Benefits grossed $18.6 million on its opening weekend, finishing third at the box office.
The film would gross $149.5 million worldwide.
Roger Ebert gave the film three out of four stars in his review.
Legacy
The legacy of Friends with Benefits lies in its fresh, self-aware approach to the romantic comedy genre. It directly acknowledges and pokes fun at the very clichés it ultimately embraces, making it feel more authentic and less saccharine than many of its predecessors.
Kunis and Timberlake deliver strong, engaging performances, showcasing their comedic timing and genuine connection. While it shares a similar premise with other films of its era, Friends with Benefits stands out for its sharp dialogue, its willingness to be a bit raunchy, and its underlying sincerity. It’s a highly entertaining film that proves even when you try to avoid love, sometimes it finds you anyway.
