New Rom-Com ‘Maintenance Required’ Misfires with Familiar Plot

LOS ANGELES, CA – A new romantic comedy titled ‘Maintenance Required’ premiered earlier this month on Amazon, but critics are labeling it a forgettable imitation of the beloved 1998 film ‘You’ve Got Mail.’

The film follows Charlie, played by Madelaine Petsch, who struggles to keep her small auto repair business alive while competing against a larger corporate mechanic across the street. Unbeknownst to her, her online love interest, Beau, played by Jacob Scipio, is actually her competitor.

Fans of ‘You’ve Got Mail’ may notice numerous plot points that mirror the classic, including the lead characters’ secret online relationship and the tension that arises when they finally meet. Critic reviews suggest that while ‘Maintenance Required’ attempts to modernize the storyline by incorporating an online car forum, it ultimately lacks the charm and emotional depth of its predecessor.

Critics noted that the film features a light-hearted interaction between the main characters, but it lacks the warmth and chemistry that made ‘You’ve Got Mail’ special. The plot, which shifts from dueling bookstores to auto mechanics, has been described as uninspired and predictable.

Petsch, known for her role in ‘Riverdale,’ has taken on the challenge of promoting both this film and her horror movie ‘The Strangers – Chapter 2,’ which was released just days apart. In a recent interview, she discussed the stark contrast between the two genres and the effort it takes to switch gears while promoting them.

Moreover, critics pointed out that ‘Maintenance Required’ seems to grapple with its anti-capitalist themes while simultaneously collaborating with major corporations like Amazon, raising questions about its authenticity. Despite moments of potential, the film ultimately appears more as a superficial rehash than a fresh take on romantic comedy.

As ‘Maintenance Required’ navigates the challenges of competing with its more successful inspirations, it begs the question of whether the current era of film can deliver a genuine romantic comedy that resonates with audiences. The film underscores the need for originality in storytelling, especially within a genre that thrives on connection and charm.