Charlotte Cantilini, played by Jennifer Lopez, is a free-spirited and optimistic temp who dreams of finding her soulmate. When she meets the successful and charming Dr. Kevin Fields, played by Michael Vartan, she thinks her prayers have been answered. However, as their relationship progresses, Kevin's mother Viola, played by Jane Fonda, becomes increasingly difficult to deal with.
Viola is a former news anchor and a very controlling person who is determined to maintain her hold on her son's life. She disapproves of Charlotte's wild personality and lack of career goals, and sets out to sabotage their relationship at every turn. Viola even hires a handsome ex-boyfriend of Charlotte's, played by Adam Scott, to seduce her away from Kevin.
As Viola's antics become more and more outrageous, Charlotte tries to hold onto her relationship with Kevin, even as she begins to doubt their compatibility. With the help of her best friend Ruby, played by Wanda Sykes, Charlotte comes up with a plan to outsmart Viola and win back Kevin's heart. In the end, Charlotte and Kevin get their happy ending, but not without a few laughs and tears along the way.