‘Just Friends’ is just so-so

Just FriendsAccording to the Man Code, apologizing is a sign of weakness. If that’s the case, I’m weak.

I want to apologize to my friend Steve because I always drag him along to bad movies. Now that I’ve got my rare apology out of the way, let’s get down to business.

A new movie is playing at your local theater called “Just Friends.”

Should you see it? If you’re dying to see a movie, then sure, waste your money but I say wait until this fluff comes out on cable.

“Just Friends” is a so-called comedy starring Ryan Reynolds as Chris Brander. Chris is rejected by a girl in high school because she says they’re just friends. He returns 10 years later to his hometown and attempts to sweep his long lost love off her feet. This whole process takes 96 minutes.

“Just Friends” is a great idea for a film. Most guys know a girl that’s broken their heart with the just-friends talk. In high school, I ran with a girl named JoLynn but I’ll save that discussion for an episode of “Dr. Phil.” I don’t like airing my personal problems in print for millions of readers.

I wanted to laugh during “Just Friends” and there are some very funny moments, but those are few and far between. The script is just too mean-spirited and the audience has no emotional connection to the characters. The cast tries hard but the film is devoid of any substance.

The movie is set in Los Angeles and New Jersey, but for some stupid reason, the producers shot the project in Canada and it shows. This is low-budget filmmaking at its worst. All I can say is: “You get what you pay for.” “Just Friends” is a decent date movie, if you’re looking to get down in a public theater. There is plenty of time to get some kissing in without missing any of the plot. I took the aforementioned, Steve.

That eliminated any shenanigans at our screening.

Desperate for a laugh? Then by all means, see “Just Friends” but don’t expect a long-term relationship from this short-term comedy.

* MATT BELLNER is an actor and personal trainer from Burbank.

20051217i4xf2hkf(LA) Matt Bellner