The film centers around Jamie Rellis (Mila Kunis) and Dylan Harper (Justin Timberlake), two young professionals who meet in New York City. Both having recently experienced failed relationships, they decide to embark on a casual, no-strings-attached sexual relationship with each other, believing that they can avoid the emotional complications of romantic involvement.
The climax of the film occurs as Jamie and Dylan navigate the complexities of their arrangement. Despite their initial agreement to keep things strictly physical, they find themselves developing genuine feelings for each other. Along the way, the movie explores the challenges and misunderstandings that often arise in modern relationships, highlighting the blurred lines between friendship and romance.
As Jamie and Dylan confront their emotions and the evolving nature of their connection, they also deal with personal and professional challenges. The film incorporates humor, witty dialogue, and a self-awareness of romantic comedy tropes, adding a meta-layer to the storyline.
The movie climaxes with a dramatic and public declaration of feelings at Grand Central Terminal in New York, where Jamie and Dylan confront their true emotions and express their love for each other. The film then delves into the aftermath of this revelation, exploring whether their friendship can survive the transition into a more traditional romantic relationship.
“Friends with Benefits” received mixed reviews from critics, with praise for the performances of Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake and criticism for its formulaic approach to the romantic comedy genre. While the film follows some conventions of the genre, it also attempts to subvert others, making it a self-aware and contemporary take on modern relationships.