VOD Spotlight: Can Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake capture Hepburn and Tracy magic in “Friends With Benefits”?

Jeff Pfeiffer

14 years ago

Dylan (Justin Timberlake) and Jamie (Mila Kunis) certainly aren’t in a settling-down frame of mind. When New York-based executive recruiter Jamie trains her headhunting skills on luring hotshot LA-based art director Dylan to take a dream job in the Big Apple, they quickly realize what kindred spirits they are. They’ve each been through so many failed relationships that they’re both ready to give up on love and focus on having fun. So when Dylan relocates to New York and the pair start hanging out regularly, they share plenty of laughs over a twin belief that love is a myth propagated by Hollywood movies. That’s when these two begin a deliciously sexy, decidedly grown-up experiment: If they add casual “no emotions” sex to their friendship, can they avoid all the pitfalls that come with thinking about someone else as more than just a pal?

As two people weaned on the disappointing promises of romantic comedies, Dylan and Jamie shouldn’t be entirely surprised when their bold move becomes a bawdy, sexy ride into uncharted territory, exposing much more of themselves than they ever thought they’d get to see.

With its pointed dialogue, enticingly adult comic situations and charming yet flawed characters, Friends With Benefits was a perfect project for director Will Gluck (Easy A), who says, “I’ve always wanted to do a movie that was an update of the old Hepburn and Tracy movies.”

And in looking for actors today to fill in those formidable Tracy/Hepburn shoes, Gluck knew it was important to match the dynamic and flirtatious chemistry captured in those classic films.

“Justin and Mila had such good chemistry together,” says Gluck. “It’s unbelievable. … I hit the lottery with those two together. Mila’s funny, smart charismatic, beautiful, goofy. It’s so fun to watch her, especially with Justin.”

Gluck recalls catching Timberlake on Saturday Night Live and being wowed. “I was impressed, and then he did another Saturday Night Live and he was even funnier. And the reason he’s so funny is because he’s a great actor. This is his first full-time comedic role. He can do anything. He’s so charismatic that you can’t keep your eyes off him.”

“Friends With Benefits” is available starting Dec. 2 on Video On Demand. Check your cable system for availability.

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