Release Date: 5 May 2010
Something Borrowed is the latest chick flick released in time to capitalise on all those suffering RRWWS aka “Royal Wedding Withdrawal Syndrome”. So get your fix, though it’s no fairy tale as Rachel (Ginnifer Goodwin) harbours feelings for her best friend Darcy’s (Kate Hudson) fiancé, Dex (Colin Egglesfield) whom Rachel studied with at law school. When Rachel’s friend Ethan (John Krasinski) discovers her dilemma, he tries offering advice all the while trying to avoid the stalker like advances of Claire (Ashley Williams).
The adapted screenplay by Jennie Synder Urman was based on the book of the same name by Emily Giffin. Directed by Luke Greenfield (The Animal) the film drags a bit in places and could have easily been shorter by 20 minutes. It’s more romance than comedy but there are the odd funny moments particularly the beach badminton battle between those all so competitive males. However the story is problematic as it doesn’t take the moral high ground, which romance purists may find hard to digest and it’s hard to barrack for the underdog if they have been underhand. Unfortunately none of the characters are sympathetic, even the typecasting of John Krasinski’s (Away We Go)in playing the sensitive sweet Ethan, just comes off as being wet and insipid. Kate Hudson’s (Bride Wars) character is boozy and obnoxious which makes the relationship with silver spooned lawyer Dex, unbelievable. Ginnifer Goodwin (He’s Just Not That into You) is playing her usual wallflower role convincingly. Colin Egglesfield, more known for his TV roles (Hawaii Five- O, Brothers & Sisters) is wooden and lacks likeability which isn’t helped by the indecisive characterisation. The best part goes to the obligatory goofy sidekick, Marcus played by Steve Howey, (Bride Wars) who manages to provide some light hearted relief from the over dramatisation.
It’s the standard chick flick fare and as long as you can tolerate the blurring of moral lines, it still makes for watchable viewing on a girls night out after a few champers.
2.5/5 stars
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