Close, but no cigar

Rating: 5/10 (29 January 2011)

** out of (****)
Ivan Reitman's latest Hollywood cash cow, "No Strings Attached", looks like a humorous, offbeat comedy that'll make you chuckle here and there, and maybe tug on some heart strings (pun intended). You do get that here, but that's pretty much it. Don't get me wrong, this is a pretty decent film that just so happens to rise above the average rom-com, but given its potential, it could use a few tweaks. The film starts out as a slick comedy with some clever one-liners and an awkward tone, but as it progresses, it gets a little formulaic and then you think to yourself, didn't I see this before? See, this a tough film to review because I did enjoy the movie, and I understand Reitman's intentions, but I don't think he fully pulled off what he set out to do. I suppose you should venture out to see this movie if you have a date. It seems like any romantic comedy coming out in February will just be very dopey and syrupy.
No Strings Attached revolves around Adam (Kutcher) who's father is cheating on his ex- girlfriend. Meanwhile, Adam runs into the girl at a party that he met at camp when he was younger. Emma (Portman) decides to solve the problem with one key element: sex. So, Emma and Adam promise to have a physical relationship, but to limit themselves to friends. Kind of like friends with benefits. But, can they stay just friends? What if one is attracted to the other?
First off, the script is sharp. That's what makes this movie shine. The jokes are witty, to-the- point, and very funny. I laughed out loud here and there. It's definitely one of the funnier movies out there. Furthermore, the performers were solid. Portman can be sexy, hysterical, and charming all at the same time. Kutcher was surprisingly fun and just went along with the ride. The supporting characters also shined. The cast was just great.
Now the bad. While I loved Kutcher and Portman, I didn't really see any chemistry between the two. Maybe I missed something, but I didn't buy into it. Furthermore, the second half plays exactly like an American soap opera, just with a few funny gags thrown in there for good measure. Also, I thought the movie dragged a little toward the end. But I would prefer the film to run a little long than way too short.
All in all, "No strings attached" could've been worse. Thank God the characters this time around were charismatic, the script was well-written, and the gags packed a punch. However, given the talents behind the camera, the outcome should've been stronger. Nevertheless, this year doesn't stick out like a sore thumb. First, we had "The Green Hornet" which was a refresher in the action/comedy department. Now we have "No strings attached" which is a refresher (the first half anyway) in the rom-com department. I'd stick with a matinée or a rental on this one. It is worth seeing at least once.
Note: Also, couldn't this film been a PG-13? The sex was minimal, and even then, it was just quick cut-aways with no nudity, except for Kutcher's behind. Had some f bombs been excised, I can swear on it this film could've been a PG-13. It doesn't matter, just wanted to point that out.