Uma Thurman puts a brave face on a bad situation as a lovesick talk-show host, in this laboured romantic comedy from director Griffin Dunne (Addicted to Love). As she prepares to get hitched to Colin Firth (doing his usual stiff-upper-lip routine), a gruff firefighter (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) worms his way into her affections. It's an unlikely match brought about by silly contrivances (including a faked marriage certificate) and a bit of banter that aims for witty and falls just short of banal. In all, there are very few laughs to be had and a good deal of wincing as co-producer Thurman resorts to pratfalls and severe head injury to get a chuckle. She just tries too hard and for no obvious good reason since Morgan's blue-collar hero comes across like a smarmy missing member of the Village People.

Emma, a radio host, is about to be married to Richard, her perfect match. But right before her wedding, she learns she's already married to Patrick, a charming but irresponsible fireman. Furthermore, Patrick has a secret: he has arranged this little trick because Emma advised Patrick's ex-fiancée to end their relationship. However, Patrick may find that the trick is on him, for he soon begins to fall in love with his uptight adversary.