A sort of forced Portman/Kutcher vehicle that is fun but also flat at times

Rating: Null/10 (12 July 2011)

No Strings Attached looked like it was exactly that. A film that would provide some laughs, good times, but then you mostly leave it behind and forget all about it and that is for the most part exactly what it is. However, given the names on this film I think many go in expecting a lot more especially from Natalie Portman who is definitely rising up as the hottest, best young actresses in Hollywood. For the most part I agree. The film however doesn't provide as many laughs, or gags or Kutcher's trademark physical comedy that he could have done a lot of in the film. The romance is pretty light given it is the focus of the entire film and while both actors are talented, their chemistry wasn't huge and fiery. It wasn't bad chemistry, don't get me wrong, but better chemistry could have pulled the film from mediocrity.
Natalie Portman is Emma. Emma is free spirited, strong, a medical residence, a modern day woman. Unfortunately for Portman the character doesn't really go to any depths beyond that. She is cute and lovable and sexy and then that's all they need from her so they leave it at that. The same could be said for Ashton Kutcher who plays struggling writer Adam. The difference is Kutcher manages to put a little more emotion and down to earth charm to his character (something that is really his trademark.) He isn't exactly any different than he is in any other romantic comedy but you do relate to him and find him watchable. The two of them fit together, and certainly make for a hot couple physically. I just wish they had given both of them more to work with character wise. The supporting cast (the typical friends in the relationship) are mostly just romantic film fodder. They are decent and fun but do not stand out in any way even rap star Ludicrous. None of them make themselves significant to the story or film.
So is the director a fresh youngster still learning the ropes? Nope. It is legendary director Ivan Reitman. He knows comedy like few others, and also has created and directed some of the most legendary film characters in history. Here is the issue. I firmly believe No Strings Attached is a true Hollywood studio film meaning they had the rights, wanted to slap it together and get it out there to make money. I know often actors and directors etc. are under contract to studios and I think that's why talented Hollywood people end up in fluff that isn't exactly up to their standards. No Strings Attached is not a bad film and if you're a fan of Kutcher or Portman you will likely enjoy it but don't expect it to blow your mind. I think the upcoming complete copy "Friends With Benefits" starring Justin Timberlake (a proved hilarious comedian) and Mila Kunis looks like they might have taken the concept and star power and put more work into it. No Strings Attached certainly won't leave a lasting impression. 7/10