Ryan Reynolds and Amy Smart, the dynamic duo from the beloved 2005 holiday film “Just Friends,” recently delighted fans with an unexpected reunion for a holiday-themed ad campaign. In the amusing campaign set in 2023, Amy Smart, in her character as Jamie Palomino, walks into the living room to find Ryan Reynolds, playing Chris Brander, checking out their Christmas tree and inquiring about her day.
As the fictional banter unfolds, Amy cradles a bottle of Aviation American Gin, a brand co-owned by Reynolds. She deadpans, “The bar ran out of Aviation American Gin,” prompting Reynolds to respond with mock horror and theatrical dismay. The comedic exchange takes a meta turn when Amy breaks character and suggests cutting the scene.
The on-screen couple finds themselves in front of a green screen, discussing the awkwardness of the situation. Despite multiple attempts to recreate the scene, Reynolds humorously attributes the changes to the characters over the 18 years since the original film’s release. The third attempt reveals the self-aware twist, with Amy realising they are filming a “stupid ad for your gin company.” Reynolds quips, “It’s a self-funded sequel,” adding a layer of humour to the meta-narrative.
Throughout the campaign, Reynolds cleverly incorporates the lyrics of the iconic song “I Swear” by All-4-One, featured in the original film. Fans flooded the comments section on YouTube, expressing their excitement and appreciation for the unexpected reunion. Some fans even suggested that “Just Friends” deserves a sequel, emphasising the film’s enduring popularity.
The reunion campaign not only brought joy to fans but also showcased the chemistry and humour that made “Just Friends” a beloved holiday classic. Reynolds and Smart’s playful banter, coupled with the nostalgia of the original film, created a heartwarming moment for viewers who have fond memories of the on-screen duo.
