Something Borrowed (2011) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Something Borrowed, directed by Luke Greenfield and released in 2011, is a romantic comedy based on Emily Giffin’s bestselling novel of the same name. The film explores themes of love, friendship, and the complexities of relationships, providing audiences with a blend of humor and emotional depth. Starring Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, Colin Egglesfield, and John Krasinski, this film offers a modern twist on classic romantic entanglements.
In this review, we will delve into the film’s plot, characters, themes, and overall impact, along with information on where to watch Something Borrowed online in the U.S.
Overview of Something Borrowed (2011)
The story centers around Rachel White (Ginnifer Goodwin), a 30-year-old single lawyer living in New York City. Rachel has always been the “good girl” and has followed the rules laid out by society and her close-knit group of friends, particularly her best friend, Darcy (Kate Hudson). When Rachel unexpectedly finds herself in a complicated romantic situation with Darcy’s fiancé, Dex (Colin Egglesfield), the lines of friendship and love blur.
As Rachel navigates her feelings for Dex, she must confront her past choices and the implications of her actions on her friendship with Darcy. The film deftly explores the question of whether it’s ever too late to pursue love and the potential consequences that come with following your heart.
Plot Summary
Something Borrowed opens with Rachel’s 30th birthday celebration, where she feels overshadowed by the glamorous and outgoing Darcy. The tension between the two friends is palpable, especially as Rachel harbors feelings for Dex, whom she has secretly loved since college.
When a chance encounter leads to a night of passion between Rachel and Dex, she finds herself torn between her loyalty to Darcy and her desire for happiness. As the story unfolds, Rachel grapples with the complexities of love and friendship, leading to moments of both heartfelt connection and comedic chaos.
The film takes audiences on a journey filled with romantic dilemmas, misunderstandings, and moments of self-discovery, ultimately culminating in a choice that will define Rachel’s future.
What Makes Something Borrowed Stand Out
1. Relatable Themes of Love and Friendship
Something Borrowed resonates with audiences through its exploration of relatable themes such as love, loyalty, and the challenges of navigating adult relationships. Rachel’s internal struggle reflects the conflicts many face when it comes to following their hearts versus adhering to societal expectations.
The film’s premise raises questions about the nature of friendship and the boundaries that can become blurred in romantic situations, inviting viewers to consider what they would do in Rachel’s shoes.
2. Strong Performances by the Cast
Ginnifer Goodwin delivers a heartfelt performance as Rachel, embodying the character’s insecurities and desires with authenticity. Her portrayal allows viewers to empathize with Rachel’s dilemmas, making her journey all the more engaging.
Kate Hudson shines as the vivacious and self-assured Darcy, bringing a dynamic energy to the film. The chemistry between the characters enhances the narrative, creating tension and depth in their interactions. Colin Egglesfield as Dex adds charm and complexity to the love triangle, contributing to the film’s emotional stakes.
3. Balancing Humor and Emotion
The film successfully balances comedic moments with emotional depth, allowing audiences to experience a range of feelings throughout the story. John Krasinski’s character, Ethan, provides comedic relief with his witty remarks and playful banter, creating a perfect counterbalance to the more serious themes at play.
This blend of humor and emotion makes Something Borrowed an enjoyable watch, as it captures the highs and lows of love and friendship without becoming overly sentimental.
4. Beautiful New York City Setting
Set against the backdrop of New York City, the film beautifully showcases iconic locations that enhance the romantic atmosphere. The vibrant city serves as a character in itself, reflecting the excitement and chaos of the relationships at the center of the story.
The cinematography captures the essence of the city, adding visual appeal and depth to the narrative. This setting further immerses viewers in the world of the characters, making their experiences feel more relatable and grounded.
Criticism and Reception
Upon its release, Something Borrowed received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its engaging performances and relatable themes, while others found fault in its predictability and conventional romantic comedy tropes. However, audiences generally responded positively to the film, particularly fans of the source material.
The film’s exploration of complicated relationships and moral dilemmas resonated with many viewers, contributing to its status as a beloved romantic comedy. Its ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments has led to its continued popularity among fans of the genre.
Where to Watch Something Borrowed Online
If you’re interested in watching Something Borrowed (2011) in the U.S., here are several options for streaming and rental:
1. Streaming Platforms
- Amazon Prime Video: Something Borrowed is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video. Subscribers can watch the film as part of their library or rent it if it’s not included.
- Hulu: The film may also be available for streaming on Hulu, depending on the current catalog and availability.
2. Rental and Purchase Options
For those who prefer to rent or buy the film, Something Borrowed can be found on:
- Google Play Movies & TV: The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play, allowing viewers to stream it on various devices.
- Apple TV: You can find Something Borrowed for rent or purchase on Apple TV, accessible across all Apple devices or through the Apple TV app.
- YouTube Movies: YouTube offers the option to rent or buy the film, making it easy to stream on a variety of devices.
3. DVD/Blu-ray
For collectors or fans of physical media, Something Borrowed is also available on DVD and Blu-ray. Purchasing a physical copy often includes bonus features like behind-the-scenes content and interviews with the cast.
Final Thoughts: A Charming Romantic Comedy
Something Borrowed (2011) is a delightful romantic comedy that skillfully weaves together themes of love, friendship, and self-discovery. With strong performances from Ginnifer Goodwin, Kate Hudson, and Colin Egglesfield, the film offers an engaging narrative that resonates with viewers.
Available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video and for rental on platforms like Google Play and Apple TV, Something Borrowed is a perfect choice for a fun and heartwarming movie night. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply looking for a lighthearted film, this movie promises an enjoyable experience filled with laughter and emotion.
