Known to be in successful iconic romance films such as The Wedding Planner and Maid in Manhattan, Jennifer Lopez makes her triumphant return to romantic movies and the big screen with Marry Me, directed by Kat Corio. The film’s premise is based on an American webcomic of the same name by Bobby Crosby, co-starring Owen Wilson and Maluma.
Lopez, last seen in the critically acclaimed role of Ramona in the 2019 film Hustlers, plays the character of Kat Valdez, a seemingly perfect and famous Latin pop queen who is set to marry her lover Bastian, played by Maluma. The marriage vows are set to happen at the last date of her concert tour, and to the tune of their collaboration single titled ‘Marry Me’. It seems like the perfect opportunity for both a wedding and a promotion, in front of fans at the arena, as well as fans online, with the concert and pending marriage televised on streaming services everywhere. However, things aren’t always what they seem.
Bastian isn’t a loyal lover, hooking up with Kat’s assistant. Learning the truth right before appearing on stage in a stunning Zuhair Murad designed wedding gown, Kat spontaneously decides to still marry at the concert, choosing a man who is holding up a ‘Marry Me’ sign. This man, randomly plucked from the audience, turns out to be primary school mathematics teacher and divorced single dad, Owen Wilson’s character, Charlie Gilbert.
Surprisingly, both Lopez and Wilson have great chemistry on-screen that feels both comforting and very natural. I was worried that they wouldn’t work well together, but they really do and it’s wonderful. Maluma also shines in his big screen acting debut, more known for his talents as a Latin pop music artist. I initially wished there were more scenes of Charlie and Bastian together to create some sort of electric tension between the two, but the film still works as is, with Bastian taking on more of an aloof happy-go-lucky player and seasoned industry professional, rather than that of a typical awful ex.
The supporting cast are great too and provide just enough within the film to make their moments matter. Sarah Silverman is hilarious as Charlie’s fellow teacher, friend and confidant, Parker. She provides the film with comedic flair which is seamless with the storyline. John Bradley is sweet as Kat Valdez’s manager, Collin. He is Kat’s voice of reason and always wants what is best for her. Lopez and Bradley also have wonderful chemistry and I wish they had more scenes together. Last but not least, Chloe Coleman is great as Charlie’s daughter Lou.
This film is a solid romantic comedy-drama and is probably now my favourite of Jennifer Lopez’s repertoire. It’s been a long time since we’ve seen a classic, feel-good romance on the big screen and it’s fantastic that Lopez is the one leading the charge. Marry Me also makes you feel like you’re at a concert for half of its run, due to the incredibly written songs and music especially created for this cinematic feature. My favourite song from the film is ‘On My Way’, and I admittedly have not stopped listening to the soundtrack since leaving the cinemas.
Marry Me is a must-see on the big screen and is the perfect chick flick to see with your friends, your family, or on a Valentine’s day date, focusing on topics of family love, romantic love, friendship, self-confidence, independence, and courage. Jennifer Lopez’s Marry Me is a winner.