Boys And Girls

Can best friends become lovers? Or is it true that "sex changes everything?"

Free-spirited Jennifer Brooks (Forlani) and uptight Ryan Walker (Prinze) first meet on a plane when they're twelve years old. It's hate at first sight. Two more it's-a-small-world encounters over a five year period prove they still clash. That is until fate brings them together again when Jennifer's neurotic roommate, Amy (Detmer), asks her to play bad guy by breaking up with her new boyfriend, who Jennifer has yet to meet. Imagine her shock--but not ours--when it turns out to be Ryan. Surprisingly a tight friendship between Jennifer and Ryan develops after the encounter. Depending on who you ask, things take a turn for the worse or better when the two share an intimate night together. Major "morning after" syndrome then threatens not only their friendship, but their hearts.

Fans of Freddie will be shocked by his first appearance. This isn't the hunk you're used to. Nope, he's bumbling, bespectacled, and has braces. Don't worry, by movie's end he's his usual gorgeous self. Still, Freddie was cute and convincing as the time-obsessed, got-a-plan nerd, Ryan. This poor guy has no idea what to do with someone like foot-loose and fancy- me, Jennifer. Past homecoming queen, present love 'em and leave 'em lady, Jennifer is played with sass and sizzle by Claire Forlani who ignites the screen with pure attitude and beauty. These two were a great match!

While there's some great one liners and zippy banter between Jennifer and Ryan, the real comic relief comes from talented Jason Biggs who plays Ryan's compulsive-liar roommate, Hunter. His penchant for fabrication doesn't get him the girls he wants, but does get him into a lot of humorous trouble. Amanda Detmer furthers the laughs as Jennifer's therapist quoting, frazzled roomate, Amy. Also notable are appearances by Buffy the Vampire Slayer's Alyson Hannigan, The Blair Witch Project's Heather Donahue and singer Monica Arnold (making her feature film debut.)

While the movie depends on coincidence and is frequently predictable there's a lot to like about this film. Prinze and Forlani have great chemistry. I loved how their character's grow and their relationship evolves from one of mutual dislike to love. Then there's the finale, I adore how this story comes full circle. All things considered, I give BOYS AND GIRLS 3 1/2 hearts. The laughter and love is certainly there, but they're muted. Especially as the real humor comes from people other than the hero and heroine. Final conclusion, an enjoyable film with just a few flaws.

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