Jennifer Lopez plays single mum Marisa who works as a maid at a posh hotel in Manhattan. While trying on designer clothes belonging to one of the hotel guests during one of her shifts, Marisa meets American politician Christopher Marshall (Ralph Fiennes), who mistakes her for the guest staying in the room. As a result of the mutual attraction and fear that he will no longer be interested in her if he finds out that she is only a maid, Marisa fails to correct Christopher's assumption and keeps up the pretence.
As far as romantic comedies go, the poor girl and successful wealthy man fall for each other' theme in Maid in Manhattan' is an unoriginal one which has been presented more effectively with more charm and humour elsewhere (eg Pretty Woman' and American President'). An additional flaw is that for a romantic comedy, there are too few laughs. Attempts at humour lie predominantly with the supporting cast which includes Natasha Richardson giving an over-the top performance as the wealthy guest Marisa is mistaken for.
Early scenes of Marisa with her young son serve to convey the affection within their relationship. Unfortunately, my inability to warm to Jennifer Lopez as an actress is an obstacle and the overall effect is far too cutesy to be affecting. I have to say, the selling point of this film for me was the idea of Ralph Fiennes in a romantic leading role but unfortunately, there is uneasiness in his performance here and I actually find him far more appealing in more dramatic roles where he has been presented with a high quality script.
As far as romantic comedies go, the poor girl and successful wealthy man fall for each other' theme in Maid in Manhattan' is an unoriginal one which has been presented more effectively with more charm and humour elsewhere (eg Pretty Woman' and American President'). An additional flaw is that for a romantic comedy, there are too few laughs. Attempts at humour lie predominantly with the supporting cast which includes Natasha Richardson giving an over-the top performance as the wealthy guest Marisa is mistaken for.
Early scenes of Marisa with her young son serve to convey the affection within their relationship. Unfortunately, my inability to warm to Jennifer Lopez as an actress is an obstacle and the overall effect is far too cutesy to be affecting. I have to say, the selling point of this film for me was the idea of Ralph Fiennes in a romantic leading role but unfortunately, there is uneasiness in his performance here and I actually find him far more appealing in more dramatic roles where he has been presented with a high quality script.