On M List of Movie Reviews
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Maid in Manhattan (2002)
Rate:
9
Viewed:
6/25
6/25:
Finally, here's a classy romantic picture that's on the same level as
Roman Holiday and Pretty Woman:
Maid in Manhattan.
So, why the hate? Jennifer Lopez has done a very good job, and this is among her best films. Given the
opportunity to work with the right material and cast, she's a competent actress, and many people don't seem
to realize that. It would be easy to detect traces of divaness in any actress and therefore call her out for
it, but Jennifer Lopez didn't show any in this one.
Recently, I watched several pictures involving Ralph Fiennes and complained at the end of
The Constant Gardener, "I know he's an excellent actor, but why
can't he appear in something that's normal for once with a coherent screenplay, still camera work, and solid
performances? It's like all I have from him are Schindler's List,
Quiz Show, and Sunshine. My wish was
finally met in Maid in Manhattan...it's what I wanted to see out of him.
I like the story although some of it can come off as snobbish and elitist. Plus, it's only believable because
Jennifer Lopez looks great. She and Ralph Fiennes make for an interesting pair and have good chemistry. There's
a screwball effect in order to cover up the true identity of the maid, so the film can be Cinderella-like.
Additionally, I'm impressed with the supporting performances by Natasha Richardson, Marissa Matrone, and Bob
Hoskins. It's hard for me to make the transition when it comes to Stanley Tucci because of his former character
in Murder One. On the other hand, child stars tend to be annoying, but
Tyler Posey passes the test.
All in all, ignore the negative reviews for Maid in Manhattan; it's actually a well-made film.