A Cinderella Story
Maid in Manhattan
Review by Ross Anthony

For as tough as Jlo seems to be, this film is contrastingly frail. The brittle super-simplified fairy-tale formula, serves as a paper skeleton for some very good acting, dialogue, comedy and direction.

The film is bright, warm, endearing from the get-go, but if you're not captured by the charm, there's nothing of substance to carry you through.

Fortunately, Jennifer and Ralph and director Wayne Wang slap the charm on thick. Tyler Garcia Posey as Ty, Jenny's politically-aware son is not only real, believable and cute, but also looks like he could be Jennifer's real-life son -- good casting. Stanley Tucci's, political adviser to the candidate (Fiennes) character, squarely earns half of the film's comedic moments. He's very strong. And the butler (Bob Hoskins) also deserves high praise for his modest dignity, and quiet strength, "...it's how well we rise from a fall."

This film dangles between an A- and a B+, but like every other male of the human race, I must confess, I've been taken under the spell of Jlo. So, call me a wimp, but that spell's gonna make me round up.

Also enjoyed the Simon & Garfunkel references and musical inclusions, and would have liked to hear the rest of that Nixon speech.

Of note, originally project began as a script by Edmond Dantes submitted for Julia Roberts' consideration.



  • Maid in Manhattan. Copyright © 2002. Rated PG-13
  • Starring Jennifer Lopez, Ralph Fiennes, Natasha Richardson, Stanley Tucci, Tyler Garcia Posey, Frances Conroy, Chris Eigeman, Marissa Matrone, Amy Sedaris, Priscilla Lopez, ob Hoskins.
  • Directed by Wayne Wang.
  • Screenplay by Kevin Wade, Story: Edmond Dantes.
  • Produced by Elain Goldsmith-Thomas, Deborah Schindler, Paul Schiff at Revolution/Red Om.



Grade..........................A-



Copyright © 2001. Ross Anthony, currently based in Los Angeles, has scripted and shot documentaries, music videos, and shorts in 35 countries across North America, Europe, Africa and Asia. For more reviews visit: RossAnthony.com


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Last Modified: Saturday, 16-Sep-2006 08:03:04 PDT