One for the Money might, at first glance, evoke comparisons to forgettable romantic comedies where mismatched leads are thrown together by circumstance. Think Gerard Butler and Jennifer Aniston in The Bounty Hunter. However, to dismiss One for the Money so readily would be a mistake. This film, centered around the escapades of a female bounty hunter chasing her ex-boyfriend, delivers a surprisingly engaging experience, largely due to its female-driven perspective both behind and in front of the camera. It’s more than just a simple comedy; it’s a lighthearted whodunnit wrapped in a chick flick package.
Katherine Heigl shines as Stephanie Plum, the film’s protagonist. Plum, a former lingerie model down on her luck, stumbles into the world of bounty hunting out of sheer financial desperation. Heigl expertly portrays Plum’s transformation from a somewhat naive woman to a determined individual navigating the often-chaotic world of Trenton, New Jersey’s criminal underbelly. A significant part of her motivation is the pursuit of her ex-boyfriend, Joe Morelli (Jason O’Mara), a police officer wanted for allegedly shooting an unarmed suspect.
Initially, one might anticipate predictable humor derived from Stephanie’s inexperience in her new profession and her romantic history with her target. The film does play on these elements, but it also introduces a more intricate plot than expected. One for the Money unfolds as a genuine mystery, with Stephanie piecing together clues and encountering a cast of quirky and memorable characters along the way. This narrative structure lends the film a spirit reminiscent of classic 80s private detective movies, albeit with a decidedly modern and feminine twist.
The screenplay, adapted from Janet Evanovich’s popular novel of the same name by Stacy Sherman, Karen Ray, and Liz Brixius, clearly emphasizes female perspectives and sensibilities. Director Julie Anne Robinson further enhances this focus, crafting a film that resonates as a chick flick while maintaining the intrigue of a whodunnit. The film cleverly populates Stephanie’s world with a supporting cast of distinct female characters, ranging from older, maternal figures to strong personalities, while also placing two attractive male figures – Morelli and the enigmatic bounty hunter Ranger (Daniel Sunjata) – at pivotal junctures in her life. This careful character development, particularly for Stephanie Plum, allows Heigl to infuse the role with a charming sass and resourcefulness that compensates for her character’s initial lack of street smarts.
While the mystery at the heart of One for the Money might not reach the levels of suspense found in pure thriller genres, it effectively maintains audience engagement. The film’s lighter touch and focus on character interactions keep the narrative flowing and entertaining. Given the extensive series of Stephanie Plum novels – currently numbering eighteen, each with a numerically themed title – the potential for sequels hinges on the box office success of this initial installment. Whether this film becomes a modest success or a larger franchise depends largely on audience reception and Katherine Heigl’s willingness to embrace the role further. However, One for the Money as a standalone film, rises above the average in entertainment value and is a worthwhile watch for those willing to give it a chance.
