Maid in Manhattan

Marisa Ventura, a hardworking single mom who keeps the books and helps guests at a posh Manhattan hotel, longs for a brighter future for her and her young son Ty. While juggling nightly shifts and day care, she catches a break when a hotel guest, Christopher Marshall, a tall political hopeful, mistakes her for a wealthy socialite. They share an evening that feels like a dream, with chemistry and laughter blossoming across class lines. But when his staff discovers her true identity, the delicate balance between love and loyalty comes under pressure. The story follows their efforts to bridge two very different worlds without letting fear or pride derail what could be real for their family and future.

Released in 2002, directed by Wayne Wang, Maid in Manhattan stems from an original screenplay by John Hughes and Kevin Wade. It stars Jennifer Lopez as Marisa Ventura and Ralph Fiennes as Christopher Marshall, pairing a city vibe with romance.

Worldwide gross reached $154,906,693 against a $55,000,000 budget, marking Maid in Manhattan as a profitable romance for its studio. Its global appeal extended across markets, contributing to a sturdy box office run driven by star power and a holiday release strategy in multiple markets worldwide.

Maid in Manhattan contributed to Jennifer Lopez's early 2000s star power, presenting a self confident, practical heroine who navigates upscale society with warmth. Fashionable hotel settings and witty banter helped the film become a recognizable date night option for a generation. Memorable outfits and scenes still appear in retro discussions.

Critics generally treated it as light entertainment that follows familiar rom com beats. The film tackles class and belonging as Marisa balances family life with romance, showing that honesty and personal integrity can bridge social divides even when appearances skew expectations. Some reviews note its sunny, conventional tone for audiences.