Based on the bestseller by two Sex and the City scribes; He's Just Not That Into You confirms that the HBO series was more than just a television show--it was a cultural institution that spawned tours; catchphrases; fashion trends; and more. Ironically; the resulting film is both smarter and funnier than the big-screen version of Carrie and the gang. Of the nine central characters; the sweet; if clueless Gigi (Big Love's Ginnifer Goodwin) makes the most vivid impression. The Maryland career girl tends to fall for friendly guys; like Conor (Entourage's Kevin Connolly); who are "just not that into" her. At a local watering hole; she meets bar manager Alex (Justin Long; Goodwin's Ed co-star); who sets her straight about the difference between what men say and what they mean; adding that there are exceptions to every rule. Her seemingly settled co-workers; Beth (Jennifer Aniston) and Janine (Jennifer Connelly); have relationship issues of their own: Beth's boyfriend of seven years; Neil (Ben Affleck); doesn't believe in marriage; and Janine's husband; Ben (Bradley Cooper); has a wandering eye... for singer/yoga instructor Anna (Scarlett Johansson). Alt-weekly ad saleswoman Mary (executive producer Drew Barrymore) provides the link between this loose-knit community. An avid Internet dater and full-time technophile; she bemoans the fact that "people don't meet each other organically anymore." At 132 minutes; Ken Kwapis's movie could use a few trims; but he brings these complicated romantic entanglements to a convincing conclusion and the confessions from random passers-by add to the laughs. --Kathleen C. Fennessy