Welcome to Movie Mondays, a weekly blog series that takes you on a cinematic odyssey through the world of film! Each week, we’ll dive into a list of my 100 least favorite movies, exploring what makes them fall short and discussing the lessons we can learn from their missteps. Remember that these low-ranking films are only that way based on my personal opinion. Something I hate may be something you love and no offense is intended. Wherever these movies fall for you, I invite you to grab some popcorn and join in on the debate over these films’ merits!

Monster-in-Law

2005

Directed by Robert Luketic

Well, well, well… what do we have here? Another Jennifer Lopez movie that tries to make us believe she’s a relatable, down-to-earth character. In the 2005 romantic comedy Monster-in-Law, J.Lo plays Charlie, a quirky temp/dog walker/yoga instructor/aspiring fashion designer (because apparently one job isn’t enough for our multi-talented protagonist) who falls for the handsome doctor Kevin (Michael Vartan).

But wait, there’s a twist! Kevin’s mother, Viola (Jane Fonda), is a former newscaster who recently had a meltdown on-air and was committed for a few months. Naturally, she takes an instant dislike to Charlie and decides to sabotage the relationship. Hilarity ensues… or does it?

Let’s be real, the only reason to watch this movie is for Jane Fonda’s delightfully unhinged performance as the mother-in-law from hell. She chews the scenery with such gusto that you almost forget how painfully predictable the plot is. Almost.

As for J.Lo, she once again fails to convince me that she’s anything other than a glamorous diva playing dress-up. Her character is supposed to be relatable, but I find it hard to empathize with someone who can apparently afford to live in Venice Beach while working multiple part-time jobs. But hey, maybe that’s just me.

The supporting cast is filled with talented actors like Wanda Sykes and Adam Scott, but they’re given little to do in this formulaic romcom. Even the usually reliable Elaine Stritch is wasted in a brief appearance as Kevin’s grandmother.

Director Robert Luketic tries his best to inject some life into the proceedings, but the screenplay by Anya Kochoff is so paint-by-numbers that even he can’t save it. The film’s attempts at humor are mostly cringe-worthy, relying on tired stereotypes and slapstick gags.

But despite my gripes, Monster-in-Law was a box office success, grossing $154 million on a $43 million budget. Clearly, there’s an audience for this kind of mindless fluff. I just wish Hollywood would stop trying to convince us that J.Lo is some kind of everywoman. She’s not, and that’s okay.

So, if you’re in the mood for a predictable romcom with a scenery-chewing Jane Fonda and a glamorous J.Lo pretending to be relatable, then Monster-in-Law might be the movie for you. Just don’t expect any surprises or genuine laughs along the way.

But hey, that’s just my opinion. What do you think? Did you find Monster-in-Law to be a delightful romp or a painful slog? Let me know in the comments below!