Becoming a timeless favorite in the romantic comedy genre, Scarlett Johansson’s movie “He’s Just Not That Into You” from 2009 has earned its spot as a staple go-to film. However, when Johansson first read the script, she recognized certain scenes that she knew could potentially spark controversy, despite her admiration for the overall work of art.
“He’s Just Not That Into You” is a fun and enjoyable film perfect for sleepovers or relaxing evenings at home. However, some steamy scenes from the movie, inspired by the popular 2004 New York Times best-selling novel, have sparked discussions among viewers. In particular, the scene where Scarlett Johansson’s character seduces a married man has stirred up the most controversy surrounding the film.
Controversies Surrounding the Film “He’s Just Not That Into You” Adapted from the bestselling novel of the same name by Greg Behrendt and Liz Tuccillo, the movie directed by Ken Kwapis in 2009 was well-received by audiences. Alongside popular films like “Legally Blonde” and “How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days,” this Scarlett Johansson-led romantic comedy quickly became a go-to choice for entertainment. The film follows five intertwined love stories featuring Scarlett Johansson, Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Connelly, Jennifer Aniston, and Ben Affleck. However, these interconnected romances included intimate scenes that some viewers found too provocative. In addressing real-life relationship issues, one particular intimate scene featuring Scarlett Johansson sparked conversations following its release.
The character played by the actress from the MCU found herself in a complicated romantic entanglement with a married man, portrayed by Bradley Cooper. This storyline is reminiscent of a controversial scene in which Scarlett Johansson, dressed in revealing attire, is shoved into a closet by Cooper as his wife, played by Jennifer Connelly, unexpectedly enters the room. The uncomfortable situation escalates as Connelly seduces her husband in front of Johansson, who is forced to witness the intimate moment.
Scarlett Johansson defended her character in her 2009 film, amidst the uncomfortable extramarital relationship with Bradley Cooper’s character. Viewers were puzzled by her character’s decision to remain hidden in the cupboard. Addressing the controversies surrounding the intimate scenes, Johansson had to speak up to defend the realistic nature of her character. Johansson explained, “Some people have questioned why she didn’t come out of the cupboard immediately. But I believe her reaction was very human. She was shocked and didn’t know what to do.” In defense of the unusual situation, Johansson even tried to put it into a real-world perspective, asking, “It’s hard to imagine how you would react in that situation. In your mind, you think you would storm out. But would you actually?” The actress acknowledged that she was aware of the controversies surrounding the scene from the start. “When I read that scene in the script, I knew it would be a topic of discussion, for sure,” Johansson mentioned.
Scarlett Johansson passionately defended both the controversial scenes and her character, Anna, in the film. She described the scenes as interesting and well-written, emphasizing her belief that they added to the overall quality. Johansson empathized with Anna, a yoga instructor who finds herself in a complicated situation, stating firmly that she is not a home wrecker. She highlighted that Anna’s choices were not made with ill intentions, as she hadn’t considered how it would feel if the same were to happen to her. Despite the controversy, the movie managed to rake in $179 million globally, surpassing its $40 million budget, and earning itself a place as a beloved romantic comedy among fans.
