Monster-in-Law

The search for Mr. Right continues for Charlotte Cantilini (Jennifer Lopez), but Charlotte, aka Charlie, is no longer looking for 'perfect', just a sweet guy. Then one day the aspiring artist and part-time dog walker, literally bumps into Mr. Right, aka Kevin Fields (Michael Vartan).

Before long Charlotte finds herself going with Kevin to meet his mother Viola (Jane Fonda). As far as Viola is concerned nobody is good enough for her darling son and when Kevin proposes to Charlotte she throws a tantrum. For her son's own good, Viola, the mother in law from hell, sets about trying to split them up.

After an absence from the big screen of well over ten years Jane Fonda makes a return in this undemanding comedy. In many respects it was probably a good choice as it allowed for a somewhat safe and discreet return. It also gave her the opportunity to play the most interesting character in the movie and it looks like she enjoyed her part of tantrum-throwing-diva. Viola is every bit the monster in law! Charlie, played by Jennifer Lopez, is the poor girl on the receiving end of her wrath.

There are some good laughs in the movie but in between these, there are some very lame bits and some of the jokes fall flat. Perhaps there are too many similar lightweight comedies and this one isn't funny enough nor have enough story to stand out from the crowd. In many ways it borrows the whole idea from Meet The Parents and the more recent Meet The Fockers.

Bottom Line: Not funny enough. Wait for a rainy weekend and rent the video/dvd. If you enjoy Monster-in-Law, here are some more suggestions: Maid In Manhattan, Sweet Home Alabama, Legally Blonde or The Wedding Planner.

Reviewed by Niall Quinn, Premier Movie Reviews 2005.

RELATED MOVIE REVIEWS:

ROBERT LUKETIC:  Legally Blonde.

JENNIFER LOPEZ:  Angel Eyes,  Enough,  Maid In Manhattan,  The Wedding Planner.

MICHAEL VARTAN:  One Hour Photo.

ANNIE PARISSE:  How To Lose A Guy In 10 Days.

Genre: Comedy

Director: Robert Luketic

Certificate: Monster-in-Law was rated 12A by the Irish Film Censor's Office (www.ifco.ie) i.e. suitable for those of twelve years of age and upwards. Under 12s must be accompanied by an adult. The movie contains mild/moderate sexual references and mild violence.

Official Movie Website:  Monster-in-Law

~ Main Cast ~

Jane Fonda

Jennifer Lopez

Michael Vartan

Wanda Sykes

Annie Parisse