Sometimes, an ordinary life takes a thrilling turn, and that’s exactly what happens in One for the Money . Starring Katherine Heigl, Jason O’Mara, and Daniel Sunjata, this crime-comedy is set in Trenton, New Jersey, a place where Stephanie Plum, the lead character, goes from unemployed lingerie saleswoman to a novice bounty hunter. Based on Janet Evanovich’s best-selling novel, the film blends action, mystery, and humor as it explores the misadventures of its quirky protagonist in her newfound career.
The story follows Stephanie Plum (Katherine), who, after losing her job and facing mounting bills, reluctantly takes on a job at her cousin’s bail bonds business. Her first assignment is to track down Joe Morelli (Jason), a former cop and old flame who’s on the run after being accused of murder. With little experience and even less know-how, Stephanie dives headfirst into a dangerous and often comical world of criminals, thugs, and high-stakes chases, all while trying to prove that she can handle the job. Along the way, she receives help from seasoned bounty hunter Ranger (Daniel), and the dynamics between the three characters form the backbone of the story.
One standout aspect of the film is Katherine’s portrayal of Stephanie. While the character is written as a spunky, resourceful underdog, Katherine infuses her with a perfect balance of vulnerability and determination. Her comedic timing and ability to portray someone completely out of her depth but determined to prove herself make her relatable and charming. Though the script doesn’t always give her the strongest material to work with, she elevates the character with her charisma. Jason, as Joe Morelli, brings a rugged charm to his role, and his chemistry with Katherine adds an intriguing romantic tension to the film. Daniel, as Ranger, brings a stoic yet likable presence, balancing out the more chaotic aspects of the film’s action scenes.
The film’s direction by Julie Anne Robinson keeps things light and fast-paced. The action sequences are well-shot and energetic, though not groundbreaking. For a film that blends comedy with crime, the tone remains relatively consistent, balancing humor with the intensity of the bounty hunting world. However, there are moments where the narrative could have benefited from tighter pacing, as certain scenes feel drawn out or repetitive, slowing down the momentum of the story.
Cinematographically, One for the Money does a decent job of showcasing the gritty yet colorful backdrop of Trenton. Jim Whitaker’s use of lighting and framing helps to create a sense of authenticity, with run-down neighborhoods, seedy bars, and Stephanie’s small apartment all contributing to the film’s working-class aesthetic. The film is visually clean and well-composed, but it doesn’t stand out in terms of innovative cinematography. It serves the story but doesn’t go beyond that.
The costume design also plays an important role in bringing Stephanie’s character to life. From her frumpy work outfits to the practical yet stylish jackets and boots she wears while chasing down fugitives, the costumes reflect her transformation from a woman struggling with her circumstances to one who finds empowerment in her new role. The costume choices are both functional and reflective of her character’s personality, adding a layer of realism to her journey.
Musically, One for the Money features an upbeat soundtrack that complements the film’s light-hearted, adventurous tone. While the score by Deborah Lurie is not particularly memorable, it serves its purpose in underscoring the film’s comedic and action beats. The music adds energy to chase scenes and brings out the levity in the more humorous moments without overpowering the dialogue or action.
The film’s editing is another area where the pacing could have been sharper. Some scenes, particularly those involving Stephanie’s interactions with the various criminals she encounters, drag on longer than necessary, and the film struggles to maintain consistent tension throughout. While the editing during action sequences is tight and engaging, the slower-paced, comedic scenes could have been more concise to keep the audience engaged.
One for the Money is an enjoyable, albeit formulaic, adaptation of a beloved book series. Katherine’s performance is its strongest asset, bringing a blend of humor and heart to an otherwise predictable story. The film doesn’t take many risks, sticking to a straightforward plot that will appeal to fans of the genre, but it lacks the depth or innovation that would have made it truly stand out. For those who enjoy lighthearted crime capers with a touch of romance and comedy, it’s worth a watch, though it may not leave a lasting impression.
In conclusion, One for the Money is a fun, popcorn flick that leans heavily on its star power to carry the narrative. While it doesn’t break new ground in terms of storytelling or action, it succeeds in delivering an entertaining ride, especially for fans of the original novel. If you’re looking for a breezy, light-hearted movie with a dash of crime-solving, this one will satisfy your craving for escapism. However, if you’re seeking something more nuanced or thrilling, you may find it lacking in substance.
