The Back-Up Plan

Zoe is tired of waiting for Mr. Right and decides to have a child on her own. She plans a single parent future and goes through insemination to start that dream. Just as the procedure begins, she meets Stan, a good hearted guy who seems to understand her hopes and quirks. Their chemistry catches Zoe off guard and complicates her carefully mapped plans. The story follows her juggling a new romance with the practicalities of pregnancy and parenting, making room for both possibility and doubt. There are awkward dates, quirky friends, and moments when the future feels suddenly uncertain. The film keeps the tone light while probing serious questions about love, family, and the kind of happiness anyone might want.

Directed by Alan Poul, The Back-Up Plan adapts a story by Kate Angelo and released in 2010. The film pairs Lopez's charm with a breezy, crowd pleasing setup that blends romance with modern motherhood. It marks Poul's rom com entry.

The budget was about 35 million. The Back-Up Plan earned about 77,477,008 worldwide, reflecting solid performer status for a romantic comedy headlined by Jennifer Lopez. Its modest take allowed it to recoup quickly and appeal to fans of romance.

While it didn't spark a lasting catchphrase or iconic moment in pop culture, the film fits into a strand of early 2010s rom coms that center on independent women balancing career, pregnancy, and relationships. Lopez's star power gave the movie extra punch with audiences seeking light hearted cheer and warmth.

Critics gave The Back-Up Plan mixed to positive notes, praising Lopez's warmth and the film's breezy pace while noting a familiar rom com structure. The story wrestles with choosing between personal goals and family life, and asks whether love can still surprise when plans go awry in today's dating culture.