The romantic premise is simple and oh-so-guy-friendly. Dylan (Justin Timberlake) and Jamie (Mila Kunis) are platonic friends who decide to have a no-strings-attached physical-only relationship (see the guy-friendly part?). To prove their hipness, the pair pledge their (un)attachment for each other by placing their hands on an iPad Bible App (it's a lot funnier on screen, trust me) and swearing an oath.
It's a match made in dysfunctional heaven. Both Dylan and Jamie are relationship rejects who have been dumped by their boyfriend/girlfriend (terrific scene-stealing work by Andy Samberg and Emma Stone) because they're "emotionally unavailable".
At the beginning, the defective duo work great. The no-holds-barred, sex-only relationship (only brief nudity) is just the tonic they've needed, but soon life gets in the way. Job complications and in-law interference collide to make the simple act of hooking up a lot messier.
There's no denying this relationship business is funny stuff - played to maximum effect thanks to a sharp direction by Will Gluck and a fast-paced, witty script. Sure this is a comedy, but Dylan and Jamie are fully drawn characters and Kunis and Timberlake show them warts and all (he wears socks to bed and sneezes as he orgasms; she's a screamer).
As with all good things, this too must come to an end. The ties that unbind the couple get a little looser than they like. And just when it looks like these two crazy kids will go their separate ways...ah, who am I kidding? You know how this winds up (not a spoiler - watch the trailer).The Hollywood ending doesn't really matter, because it's so much fun to watch them get there.
Friends with Benefits is an adult comedy with a sharp edge and underlying sweetness. Sure, it's got a bite, but with this many laughs you'll hardly notice.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
Follow us on Twitter: @BoomerBrief
and @CharlotteBoomer
Know someone battling cancer? Baylor Health Care System's Sammons Says... cancer blog is a great place to go for help. Here, you'll find information, resources, physicians, support groups and just about everything you need to help you navigate your way through this illness.
Senior Forums is a great place to get the news and share views on everything from hobbies and healthcare, to food, family & travel.
Matt Drudge gets the goods and his site ain't bad either.
You don't have to live in Dallas to enjoy D Magazine.
