 Movie
Reviews
with Evelyn Gough
Monster-in-Law (M)
Directed by Robert Luketic
 "Think
I'm impressed? Hah! Guess you haven't seen me in Barbarella!"
It's been 15 years, and in my opinion 15 years too long, since Jane Fonda graced
our screens.
Admittedly her latest project Monster-in-Law is no Klute or China Syndrome
to name but a couple of her powerful and unforgettable films. So it's no surprise
that she's been copping some flack for this piece of lightweight fluff (but then
as history buffs know, when is she not copping flack).
Not that I have a problem with fluff. I thought Monster-in-Law looked like
good fun and I wasn't disappointed, despite the fact that it stars one of my least
favourite actresses, Jennifer Lopez. But happily even she delivers a fun, sassy
performance. J Lo stars as the multi-talented Charlie, who catches the eye of
sexy surgeon Kevin (Michael Vartan). He's the man of her dreams and everything
is coming up roses until he proposes right in front of his mother Viola (Jane
Fonda), who is recovering from a nervous breakdown after being sacked from her
high profile television job.
Apparently a 'temp' is not a good enough catch for her little boy and Viola
takes it upon herself to break up the happy couple.
Don't be put off by the fact that Monster-in-Law is receiving some pretty tragic
reviews. At times it's predictable, sometimes just plain silly and Fonda's performance
could be considered over-the-top, but I still found it very entertaining with
plenty of good laughs. Wanda Sykes in particular is hilarious as Viola's spunky
assistant, as is Elaine Stritch as Gertrude, Kevin's grandmother.
I doubt Jane Fonda will be getting any Oscars for this role, but if you're
after some light entertainment that will leave you feeling good - hopefully you
don't have a mother-in-law like her - then this is a comedy I'd happily recommend.
Rating: 
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