[6.00/10] No Strings Attached (2011)

No Strings Attached (2011)

Brief review: The well known comedy director Ivan Reitman brings this highly enjoyable rom-com about life-long-friends-become-lovers, who try to keep their relationship strictly physical, though they soon realize they want something more than just sex. Yes, "No Strings Attached" is not without its flaws - it's unoriginal, overly predictable, and instantly forgettable, but nevertheless the movie provides a decent level of entertainment, laughter, and amusement to the audience, and it's sharp, sexy, and even naughty at times. Reitman is a very experienced director, he shows some diversity behind the camera, though his direction lacks focus in places, hence, the pacing loses its steadiness, and the movie drags a bit here and there. "No Strings Attached"'s main strength is its cast, and the Oscar-winner Natalie Portman in particular. Not only is she naturally stunning, but she proves yet again what a talented and amazingly versatile actress she is. Though this is an untypical role for her, Portman delivers a great comedic performance - she's sweet, funny, and utterly alluring as Emma. Ashton Kutcher's lack of acting skills is no secret, but he compensates with charisma and strong screen presence. On top of that, they both make an incredibly appealing couple.

Overall summary: "No Strings Attached" may be overly predictable and lacking in originality, but it succeeds in certain areas, thanks to its sharp and witty script, Reitman's typically solid direction, and Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher's incredible on-screen chemistry.