NO STRINGS ATTACHED (REVIEW)
Rated
MA - 108 mins
Ashton Kutcher, Natalie Portman, Lake Bell, Kevin Kline, Greta
Gerwig, Olivia Thirlby
'When Harry Spanked Sally' might
be more of an appropriate title for this romantic film of carnal courtship and
sexual attraction. A frank, uncensored and undoubtedly honest comedy that suggests
the woman is in control of the relationship process.
In a role
that couldn't be further away from her remarkable turn in 'Black Swan', Oscar
favourite Natalie Portman plays the slightly eccentric Emma. A doctor in training,
she doesn't have time for a full on relationship and hasn't actually wanted a
fling either; until now. Her old friend Adam (Ashton Kutcher) is a television
producer on the Paramount back-lot and although popular with the ladies, unlucky
in love. Emma has known Adam for many years since a raunchy conversation at a
junior summer camp, then brief encounters through various acquaintances over time.
Nothing has happened; until now.
Adam goes on a bender, ends
up at Emma's house surrounded by her roommates, the next morning observing him
naked. Emma takes control and they end up sleeping together before breakfast.
The more they hang out, the more he falls for her. However, the same isn't reciprocated
from her. Emma wants to keep it purely physical stating her career is a priority,
Adam is in love. However, before you can hear Elton John singing 'I Guess That's
Why They Call It The Blues' in the background, the provocative liaisons continue
anyway.
Veteran director Ivan Reitman, currently in the process
of making a third Ghostbusters film, whips up enough pizzazz and comic effect
for his cast to shine in an otherwise plot full of fluff. As far as chick flicks
go, this is one that guys might like too, the sexually charged dialogue doubles
as foreplay and there is plenty of it. The crude prose makes for some amusing
banter with crass observations explained in graphic detail. The eternal flame
of romance burns bright in a finale to keep fans of this genre happy, but the
kinky bed hopping to get there is at least enthusiastic.
Kutcher
is an actor who grows on you, but he plays this role in his sleep having done
it a dozen time before. Little known Greta Gerwig, last seen opposite Ben Stiller
in the little known 'Greenberg' is a standout as Emma's confidant and gutter mouth
physician trainee.
Wonderful to see the great Kevin Kline ('The Big Chill',
'I Love You To Death') as a former TV star and Adam's sleazy father, now surviving
on past royalties and a penchant for younger girls.
Shane
A. Bassett
