News from Afar

Just Friends is a 2005 Christmas romantic black comedy film directed by Roger Kumble, written by Adam 'Tex' Davis and starring Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, Anna Faris, Chris Klein and Christopher Marquette. The plot focuses on a formerly obese high school student (Reynolds) who attempts to free himself from the friend zone after reconnecting with his best friend (Smart), with whom he is in love while visiting his hometown for Christmas from his music label job. The film revolves around humorous observation of strictly platonic relationships as "just friends" or "just as best friends". Davis's screenplay for Just Friends was initially optioned in 2001 by New Line Cinema, and was inspired by numerous elements of his own life. Principal photography took place in early 2005 in Los Angeles as well as Regina and Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Canada. The film was an international co-production between the United States, Canada, and Germany. Just Friends was released on November 23, 2005, and grossed over $50 million. It received mixed reviews from film critics, but has developed a cult following in the years since its release.