Jennifer Lopez returns to rom-coms: it’s a Jen-aissance

Jennifer Lopez returns to the romantic-comedy arena with a film that flips the familiar script: she plays a powerful airline CEO who finds love where she least expects it. Office Romance, now streaming on Netflix, blends sharp, adult humor with heartfelt moments — and it’s already sparking conversation for its tone, casting, and one unforgettable birthing sequence.

In New York City, Lopez sat down with Refinery29 to unpack the movie’s creation, her connection with co-star Brett Goldstein, and why this kind of rom-com feels especially timely. The movie marks a different kind of leading-lady role for Lopez and a new creative collaboration that began with an unexpected message from Goldstein: he wrote the film specifically with her in mind.

Why rom-coms are staging a comeback — and why Lopez calls it a “Jen-aissance”

Lopez says that genre popularity ebbs and flows, and romantic comedies naturally cycle back into the cultural spotlight. She argues that rom-coms endure because they capture two basic human truths: humor in everyday life and the desire for meaningful connection. In a moment where technology can feel isolating, films that celebrate real, tactile relationships offer reassurance and optimism.

• They remind viewers that laughter coexists with hardship.
• They provide hope by showing ordinary people finding love.
• They tap into cultural moods — when audiences crave warmth and intimacy, rom-coms respond.

Lopez playfully dubbed the trend a “Jen-aissance,” a nod to her long history with the genre and the renewed appetite for romantic comedies.

Office Romance: premise, stars, and how the film came together

The film centers on Jackie Cruz (played by Lopez), the founder and CEO of an airline, who develops a romance with Daniel Blanchflower, a lawyer portrayed by Brett Goldstein. Goldstein — known for his sharp comedic instincts — co-wrote the film and has said the project hinged on Lopez saying yes. That direct creative intent shaped both the tone and the relationship on screen.

• Main cast: Jennifer Lopez as Jackie Cruz, Brett Goldstein as Daniel Blanchflower.
• Writers: Brett Goldstein and collaborator Joe Kelly brought a distinct sensibility to the script.
• Availability: Office Romance is streaming on Netflix.

Representation matters: a Latina CEO character who isn’t defined by struggle

One of the defining features of the film, Lopez explained, is that her character is already successful. Jackie is a Latina executive who built an airline and runs it — a portrayal that diverges from the “aspirational underdog” roles Lopez has often played. That visibility of a Latinx woman in a position of authority was a key reason Lopez accepted the part.

She also reflected on the experience of being underestimated throughout her career, noting that repeatedly defying expectations has become part of her path. The film leans into that theme by showing a powerful woman who still faces skepticism, yet commands respect for her competence and achievement.

Not your typical rom-com: tone, adult humor, and a masculine edge

Office Romance intentionally avoids the “chick flick” label. Because Goldstein and his writing partner approached the material from a different angle, the comedy includes more adult, sometimes raunchy jokes and a slightly rougher sensibility than conventional romantic comedies.

The combination of romantic beats and more daring humor creates a hybrid that aims to appeal to both longtime rom-com fans and people who want something edgier. Lopez highlighted that the movie is for grown-ups — it has heart, but it also isn’t shy about pushing boundaries for laughs.

What sets this film apart

• A lead who is a powerful entrepreneur and pilot.
• Humor that leans adult and unexpected.
• Male and female perspectives fused into the tone.
• Scenes that deliberately push the envelope, including a controversial birthing moment.

On-screen chemistry: how Lopez and Goldstein found a natural rapport

The two leads hit it off quickly, Lopez said. After an early group Zoom meeting, she noticed Goldstein’s obvious enthusiasm and longtime fandom; his message framing the project as a one-person wish list helped set a warm, earnest tone before they ever met in person. That early friendliness translated into effortless chemistry during filming.

Lopez also acknowledged the constant public impulse to “ship” her with co-stars, a phenomenon that follows her through interviews and appearances. Still, she described the relationship with Goldstein as genuine and easy on set.

Bold set pieces: the airplane scenes and the birthing sequence

Lopez’s character is both pilot and CEO, a duality the actor enjoyed portraying. She didn’t undergo extensive flight training but took a quick course to make certain scenes, including a tumultuous airplane sequence, feel believable. One cheeky moment even nods to classic cinematic romance in a scene that riffs on the kind of long-remembered movie moments audiences recognize.

The film’s birthing scene — featuring Betty Gilpin in a central role — generated a lot of buzz. Lopez and the creative team chose to present childbirth in a frank, physical way because it felt authentic to the story and offered comedic possibilities. She stressed that showing the full, messy experience of labor helped both sell the emotion and create big laughs.

The movie as a love letter: workaholics, ambition, and New Jersey

Goldstein has described the film as an ode to people who live for their work, and Lopez echoed that sentiment. Both lead characters are deeply invested in their professions; their mutual respect and shared ambition become the foundation of their attraction. Rather than depicting career success as an obstacle to love, Office Romance celebrates partners who admire one another’s drive.

Lopez also pointed out that the film has a strong affection for New Jersey. Written with an eye toward authenticity, several scenes and the film’s overall vibe were crafted as a tribute to the state’s character and energy.

Behind the scenes: prep, humor on set, and audience reaction

Actors and writers pushed boundaries during production, weighing the risk of offbeat jokes against whether they’d land. Lopez described moments on set when the team asked, “Is this going to work?” but said the results proved successful — especially the scenes that felt risky in rehearsal.

• Preparation highlights: Lopez took short flight instruction to make cockpit moments believable.
• Performance notes: The cast embraced physical comedy and high-stakes set pieces.
• Reception: Viewers and critics have focused attention on the film’s mix of heart and shock value, especially the childbirth scene.

How to watch and extra material

Office Romance is available to stream on Netflix. The interview discussed here was edited for clarity by the publisher, and a video of the full conversation is available alongside the article.

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David Miller

David Miller is an entertainment expert with a passion for film, music, and series. With eight years in cultural criticism, he takes you behind the scenes of productions and studios. His energetic style guides you to the next big releases and trending sensations.