Jennifer Lopez’s latest project, the Prime Video film “This Is Me…Now: A Love Story,” arrives as a companion piece to her album revamp and a testament to her enduring star power. Described as a “musical odyssey” and “genre-bending,” the film delivers just that: a chaotic, visually ambitious ride through her romantic history, filtered through fantasy and introspection.
The film opens with a stylized Puerto Rican folk tale of star-crossed lovers, foreshadowing the much-publicized “Bennifer” narrative. Director Dave Meyers, renowned for his music videos, infuses the movie with his signature aesthetic. While visually striking at times, critics debate whether it consistently enhances the narrative or descends into visual overload.
Lopez, ever the show-woman, commands the screen. Songs like “Can’t Get Enough” allow her to channel past disappointments in a fun, relatable way. Yet, the reliance on metaphors and unsubtle imagery (her heart represented as a giant, rose-petal-fueled machine) feels heavy-handed, some might even say cheesy. But does this fit the larger-than-life persona of J.Lo, the actress known for rom-com charm and over-the-top choices?
The inclusion of a Zodiac Love Council is a quirky highlight. From Jane Fonda and Post Malone to Keke Palmer and Trevor Noah, their debates on Lopez’s love life add humor and a touch of the surreal. However, fans hoping for truly revelatory insights might be disappointed. The film glosses over deeper introspection.
The film’s “confessional” elements are undercut by the very public nature of Lopez’s recent reunion with Ben Affleck. Some critics wonder if this project is less about vulnerability and more about showcasing her resilience and romantic victory. Therapy scenes with Fat Joe, while well-intentioned, lack the emotional depth one might have hoped for.
Several critics point out the film sidesteps a chance to delve into the media’s role in her love life, a topic Lopez has been vocal about in the past. A bolder film might have tackled this, adding complexity to the fairytale ending with Affleck that “This Is Me… Now” seems determined to deliver. The upcoming documentary “The Greatest Love Story Never Told” could offer those insights for those seeking them.
Despite these criticisms, it’s undeniable that “This Is Me… Now” is a testament to Lopez’s persistence in the industry. Her career has weathered slumps and scrutiny, but she continues to bounce back. This project could be seen as a rebuttal to Hollywood’s reluctance to fully embrace her as a serious actress despite her proven commercial success.
Ultimately, “This Is Me…Now” is a polarizing experience. Fans are sure to enjoy the visual spectacle, Lopez’s charisma, and the nods to her personal life. Those seeking deeper exploration or artistic risk-taking might be left wanting. But one thing’s clear: the film, like its subject, refuses to be ignored. It sparks conversation, memes, and reminds us that J.Lo remains a force to be reckoned with.
WATCH This Is Me…Now on AMAZON PRIME VIDEO
