Whimsical music engulfs the scene as an embellished storybook fills the screen and superstar Jennifer Lopez opens the narrative with a captivating eagerness, asking the audience, "Have you ever heard the story of Alida and Taroo?" Through the lens of a Puerto Rican folklore of two star-crossed lovers converted by deities into a red flower and blue bird, Lopez begins her emotional love story.
The film, a companion to her first album in ten years, titled "This Is Me … Now," creatively links her life's challenges to this timeless tale, culminating in her idyllically romantic rekindling and marriage to Ben Affleck. Affleck even makes a playfully sly cameo, reminiscent of his infamous 2008 SNL skit mocking Keith Olbermann.
Soon, the narrative cuts to a blissful J.Lo on a motorcycle, clutching the driver as they zip through a stunning mountain-beach setting. That is until a crash separates them, and the picture dissolves, leaving Lopez alone in a desolate heart factory that seems lost in time. The film’s initial musical number, "Hearts and Flowers," begins here, its lyrics as earnest and cheesy as one may predict.
Although Lopez's voice is heavily autotuned for some, her dances remain as lively and dynamic as ever. Breathtakingly theatrical, one dance scene shows couples in a glass house connected with colorful fabric that pulls them back together in the style of a yo-yo when they try to move away. This spellbinding choreography is inspired by the Tanztheater style of renowned German dancer, Pina Bausch. Further, a group therapy performance takes cues from "Mein Herr" from "Cabaret," showcasing Lopez's raw emotional energy.
The film seamlessly transitions between the dreamlike music sequences from her album, therapy sessions with her long-time friend Fat Joe, and unexpected segments featuring an astrological council of stars (literally embodied by prominent celebrities). Strangely though, there is no representation for the Aquarius or Capricorn signs.
A standout aspect of the film was Fat Joe's soothing presence and a decades-long bond that shines through their scenes. Oscar nominee Paul Raci also impresses with his steady presence as a Romantics Anonymous group therapy session’s facilitator.
Part of this visual-audio experience allows Lopez to reflect on her personal life, her previous roles, and how they influenced her romantic self-expression. Her performance in various popular rom-coms is revisited and humorously mimicked. However, this film is not all satire; her genuine belief in the notion of soulmates and earnest understanding of the romance genre fans add to the appeal of this project.
Despite criticisms of poor CGI visuals, inconsistent editing, and clumsy staging, "This Is Me … Now: A Love Story" boldly allows Lopez to bare her soul, revealing her darkest moments, deepest scars, and her therapeutic healing process that led her to the love story she always yearned for. The fact that she keeps her happy ending exclusively personal might disappoint some; however, after enduring decades of media scrutiny, it seems Bennifer 2.0 rightfully deserves their peaceful haven.
