Friends with Kids (2012)

Remember how funny Bridesmaids was? If you loved the movie because of the hilariously dynamic chemistry between Jon Hamm, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Chris O'Dowd on screen, Director/leading lady Jennifer Westfeldt has just the film for you: Friends with Kids.

The story revolves around Jason and Julie, two friends who conceive of a plan to have a child together but share no romantic relationship. Essentially the plan boils down to Jason and Julie raising a child as two single parents so that each may be free to delve into romance when it comes along. Along with Jason and Julie for this crazy ride are their coupled-up friends Ben, Missy, Leslie and Alex. Admittedly the plot of Friends with Kids seems a little over-done and predictable, however the ensemble cast of comedic heavy-hitters easily distracts the audience from any tiredness in the story.

Taking on one of the lead roles as Julie is the film's Director, Jennifer Westfeldt. While the combination of acting/directing can often times spell disaster for the final product of the film, Westfeldt seems to have found the balance needed to get both jobs done well. By Westfeldt's side as platonic friend and baby daddy Jason is Adam Scott, that quiet but funny actor whose work credits include Parks and Recreation and Party Down. Able to hold his own outside the world of television, Scott proves he can be funny on screens big and small.

Who does irreverent comedy nowadays better than Maya Rudolph? It proves impossible not to laugh out loud at Rudolph's performance as Leslie as she lights up the screen with her distinct comedic talents. And who better to offset Rudolph's extroverted comedy than the quiet, shy, yet no less funny Chris O'Dowd? It is O'Dowd's sly, subtle humour that works so well for his role in this ensemble.

Rounding out the couples are Kristen Wiig and Jon Hamm as married pair Ben and Missy. Wiig as always is entertaining in her distinct, unique way. There is something about her presence, from her attitude to her line delivery to her body movements, that always draws attention, not to mention laughs, in Wiig's direction. Jon Hamm, who plays Missy's husband Ben, flies largely under the radar for the majority of the film. Sure, his rugged good looks are difficult to ignore, but aside from one dark and emotional outburst, Hamm is more for looking at than listening to.

The thing about Friends with Kids is that it's all about the cast; how they interact with one another, how they play off each other's riffs, and how they mesh together to create one cohesive comedic gem. The story is nothing new, but the way that the ensemble brings it to life makes it something worth watching.

Friends with Kids is definitely worth your time, unless you don't like to laugh, in which case stay far, far away.

Rating: 4 out of 5