Monster-in-Law

Monster-in-Law is a 2005 romantic comedy, directed by Robert Luketic with a razor-sharp screenplay by Anya Kochoff. This film brings together the talents of Jennifer Lopez, Jane Fonda and Michael Vartan in a humorous exploration of the age-old clash between a mother and her son's bride-to-be.

Jennifer Lopez stars as Charlie Cantilini, a free-spirited, part-time dog walker and aspiring fashion designer, who finds her match in Kevin Fields (played by Michael Vartan), a successful doctor and the only son of a wealthy, television show host, Viola Fields (Jane Fonda). Charlie, whose previous relationships have been notoriously unsuccessful, is pleasantly surprised when she meets Kevin, finding in him everything she's been looking for in a partner. She's overwhelmingly happy and starts to believe that she's finally going to get her happily ever after.

However, standing in her way is Kevin's mother, Viola. As a veteran news anchor and television host, Viola is used to being in control. She is protective, possessive, and not prepared to let her darling son be taken away by just any woman. Jane Fonda delivers a tour de force performance as Viola, an overbearing mother-in-law, returning to the big screen after years of absence. With her impeccable comic timing and clear chemistry with the rest of the cast, Fonda takes Viola from being diabolically villainous to surprisingly sympathetic.

When Viola loses her job, she spirals out of control fearing she would lose her son as well. Her fears exacerbate when Kevin announces his intent to marry Charlie, pushing Viola into a hilarious counter-plan to break up the couple. Viola's scheme to deter Charlie from marrying Kevin----a plan packed with awkward dinners, criticism, and blatant sabotage----is straight out of a playbook for comedy gold. Each scene brings an escalating level of ridiculousness that will have the audience rolling in their seats.

Charlie's only aid in this tumultuous situation is Viola's long-suffering assistant, Ruby, portrayed by the brilliant Wanda Sykes. Ruby, who has been with Viola through her many ups and downs and can decipher her numerous eccentricities, often ends up being the voice of reason. Her sarcastic exchanges with Viola and her observations about the chaotic unfolding Mother-Bride war are high-points in the film.

The movie is not just a comedy of errors, but it also takes the time to understand the flawed and complicated individuals beneath the broad comedic archetypes. It approaches the story with a touch of warmth and surprising heart, with both Charlie and Viola given the space to grow, evolve, and learn from the chaos they've created.

Lopez delivers a superb performance, her charisma and natural comedic chops shining through as Charlie navigates the treacherous waters of her relationship with her future mother-in-law. Vartan gives Kevin an easy-going charm, providing the perfect foil to both the women in his life. Their love story, though often in the background of Viola's machinations, is believable and tender.

Despite the titular monster's antics, this movie is essentially a battle for acceptance and understanding. It highlights the dynamics of relationships---be it romantic or familial----and the compromises one must make to maintain harmony.

Monster-in-Law is laden with clever one-liners and physical comedy that capitalizes on the skillful performances of the ensemble cast. It's a riotous rom-com with dramatic flair that uses the traditional mother-in-law stereotype to set up bouts of laughter, while not shying away from exploring the vulnerability and fears that often accompany close familial relationships. The film's bright color palette, lavish set pieces, and spectacular wardrobe contribute to a visually pleasing cinematic experience.

The film's soundtrack, featuring iconic songs coupled with David Newman's original score, adds a rhythmic pulse to Charlie and Viola's antics. The upbeat tracks work seamlessly to complement the film's lively and tongue-in-cheek humor.

In a nutshell, Monster-in-Law is a feel-good comedy that plays around the trope of menacing in-laws with a fresh perspective. It offers a delightful blend of laughter and romance, exquisitely peppered with chaotic confrontations and devious plans, striking a balance between slapstick humor and emotional depth. It is a film that's decidedly entertaining, bound to leave the audience both amused and moved.