At the same time the producers sent Fonda the first draft of the script, they were wooing Jennifer Lopez, who eventually committed to the project in early May 2003. She then became an integral part of the production team and worked with filmmakers throughout the pre-production and production process.
“It’s hard to find a romantic comedy with a fresh premise,” says Lopez, who has made her mark in the genre. “The audience already knows the ending, so it’s really got to be about the journey. This is a story about a free-spirited girl who hasn’t tied herself down to anything because of her own fears about life and commitment, but the movie also looks at today’s mores juxtaposed with those of from Viola’s generation. Women like Viola were very focused and driven. Things were supposed to be done in a certain way, at a certain time in your life. The comedy comes from watching these two generations relate in a setting where they are pitted as rivals; it lent for funny situations, especially when the mother behaves against type and becomes totally out of control.”
While the mother may be the character in the title role, the story is actually driven by the would-be daughter-in-law.
“Charlie is actually the key to the story,” explains screenwriter Anya Kochoff. “Her character must be sympathetic and Jennifer fits the role perfectly as this beautiful, sweet girl who is very innocent and is so in love with Kevin.”
“Charlie is a 2005 woman,” continues the writer. “She’s not sure what she wants to do with her life, and the last thing she’s looking to do is get married, which of course, makes her a better catch. She’s also used to running when relationships get too close or too hot or complicated. So one of the bigger hurdles she has to overcome is learning how to stick it out and deal with problems. She decides she’s going to make it work because she really loves the guy. She’s going to have to beat Viola at her own game, which for me was the most fun.”
Lopez was delighted with the idea of Jane Fonda playing opposite her. “After they mentioned her name, I couldn’t picture anyone else in the role, so it was perfect when she accepted,” says Lopez. “I was very excited to be working with an actress of her caliber and legendary status.”
The two actresses formed an immediate bond. “We really liked each other,” says Lopez. “We had a mutual respect for one another. There is no halfway with Jane; she gives one hundred percent every single time, every single line, every single scene. I admire the way she handles herself, her preparation, and the passion she has after being in this business for so many years. She comes to set and takes risks and doesn’t care what anybody thinks – that’s Jane Fonda. She is the epitome of what you hope an actor is when you first start out. She is the real thing. It made me love her even more.”
Fonda was equally impressed with her co-star.
“I will tell you one thing about Jennifer Lopez – this woman is deeply talented,” says Fonda. “She really knows her stuff. I can see her directing one day because she knows how to plan out each scene and she’s not scared to try anything. She is very smart.”
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