Love, light, and romance are harmonious elements, when found in conjunction, lend to the idea of greater possibilities. For those looking ahead, especially during this time of year, the coupling of these ideas calls out to their inner romantic. And nothing speaks to the spirit and soul of these concepts like romantic comedies.

There are plenty of theories as to why romantic comedies are so popular. However, it's not a far reach to believe that the sole rationale is that they remind us that anything can happen when love is involved. So for those yearning for just an ember of that hopefulness, Michael Jacobs has the perfect prescription for igniting that spirit in the upcoming film Maybe I Do.

The film is crafted by an artisan of the highest caliber, so viewers can be assured that this film is in good hands. This feature marks the return of creator/producer Michael Jacobs a veteran in television. One thing fans of Jacobs understand is his talent for developing perfect situational pieces. One need only look at his filmography to back up this claim.

For those unaware, Jacobs made a name for himself by building a core audience born and bred on family sitcoms. A signature of his work was relationships and the drama surrounding such dynamics, and in each case, he nailed it. To add a bit of background, Jacobs is known for his contributions to beloved series favorites Charles in Charge, Boy Meets World, Dinosaurs, Girl Meets World, and My Two Dads. For his work in that sector, he has won acclaim, taking home an Emmy and People's Choice Award.

But, for those who may argue that television and film are entirely different beasts, Jacobs has also succeeded in this arena. His 1994 film Quiz Show earned him a BAFTA, Golden Globe, and an Academy Award nomination. Although it's been quite some years since his last project, he's back with a film that promises to bring some laughter and love. Here's what to expect from Maybe I Do.

Maybe I Do: The Plot

If the title doesn't give it away, Maybe I Do, is a story centered on the idea of marriage and the heaviness of making such a weighty decision. At the center are a pair who have put their cards on the table. And the draw is marriage. So at a crucial turning point in their relationship, the young couple decides it's time to get the extended family involved.

Related Link: The 20 Best Romantic Comedies of All Time, Ranked

They send out an invitation for a meet-up between their parents. It would seem that the anxiety of possible nuptials and meeting in-laws would be the biggest surprise. But, as it turns out, that surprise pales in comparison. What the pair soon discover is way more shocking: this is not the first time their parents have met. As Russh notes, "As it turns out, they're well acquainted already," emphasizing the word acquainted.

But as a word of warning, filmgoers should expect something other than the over-the-top mushiness that comes with films in this genre. Maybe I Do is not the typical Hallmark fare. Instead, Jacobs makes things a little spicy, adding a pinch of naughty in the mix. But with such a tempting balance, it's the perfect elixir for the winter and enough to ignite embers, adding sparkle to the new year.

Maybe I Do: The Cast

Cast of Maybe I Do movie
Vertical Entertainment

One thing that sets this film apart as an early stand-out is the first-rate cast. The story will unfold in the hands of stars who are paragons in romantic comedies. Emma Roberts (Holidate) and Luke Bracey (Elvis) will portray the love birds.

Related: Why Netflix’s Wedding Season Is One of the Best Romantic Comedies of the Year

Other important players in this drama include film royalty Diane Keaton (Father of the Bride), Susan Sarandon (Bull Durham), Richard Gere (Pretty Woman/Officer And a Gentleman), and William H. Macy (Pleasantville). They all come together to bring fans a doozie of a story, and it's pretty steamy. As Glamour notes, "Gere and Sarandon play paramours who are married to Keaton and Macy, respectively, who are also having an affair." Hot and heavy only begin to define what's going on in this situation.

Release Date

Maybe I Do is scheduled for release on January 27 in theaters nationwide.

Everything Else We Know

Cast of Maybe I Do movie
Vertical Entertainment

The film is very much a reunion piece. It is not the first time a few of these actors have paired to win the hearts of fans. As a fun fact, Emma Roberts and Luke Bracy, who are the leading pair in Maybe I Do, have done this once before. These two also starred as a romantic pair in a 2020 seasonal Netflix rom-com, Holidate. Given the fireworks the two set off in that film, there is no telling what flames the two will spark in the upcoming feature.

However, they are not the only two who will reunite. In 1977, Richard Gere and Diane Keaton stole hearts in the romantic comedy Looking for Mr. Goodbar. And now fate and movie magic has brought them together once more.

This film is a must-see for 2023. This feature is especially recommended for those longing for a tale about love, cross-road dilemmas, affairs, and hijinks.