Friends with Benefits

Friends with Benefits is currently streaming in Australia on Stan and Sony Pictures Core Amazon Channel, and in the US on Starz Apple TV Channel, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. It says what it needs to say in one sitting, no filler. Its 7/10 TMDB score, built from 8,446 ratings, reflects a title that consistently delivers. Justin Timberlake is the obvious draw, but the whole ensemble earns its laughs. Put it on tonight on Stan and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Friends with Benefits is worth clearing space for. Friends with Benefits gets the fundamentals right first, then finds room to get weird with it. Dylan is done with relationships. Jamie decides to stop buying into the Hollywood clichés of true love. When the two become friends they decide to try something new and take advantage of their mutual attraction - but without any emotional attachment. Justin Timberlake and Mila Kunis lead a cast with the timing to make it work. It was released in 2011. What keeps Friends with Benefits from feeling disposable is a cast that clearly understands the material better than the format usually demands. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Friends with Benefits is the kind of thing you put on in the background and end up fully watching. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. Short enough to finish in one sitting, substantial enough to feel satisfying. Justin Timberlake is funny in a way that holds up on rewatch. Put it on when you need something guaranteed to land.