No Strings Attached

A trite plot is rescued by engaging leads, a reliable stream of clever lines, and a solid array of supporting players in director Ivan Reitman's romantic comedy. Natalie Portman (segueing rather dramatically from her Oscar-winning turn in Black Swan) stars in a stereotypical role as a confirmed commitment-phobe. Since her med-student schedule leaves her no room for true romance, Emma (Portman) enters into a “friends with benefits” deal with amiable would-be writer Adam (Ashton Kutcher), who's just been dumped by his girlfriend. Anyone who's seen a rom-com knows that these two will wind up together more permanently, however much they try to resist one another's charms. And their on-again, off-again relationship is predictable, especially in the obligatory third act when they're separated and miserable. But Portman brings her customary intensity and energy to her character, and the petite actress is amusingly paired with the gangly Kutcher, whose goofiness is used to good advantage here. Add a formidable supporting cast (including Kevin Kline, Greta Gerwig, Mindy Kaling, and Chris “Ludacris” Bridges), and the result is like a raunchy extended sitcom that is more fun than one might expect. A strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)