A simple way to describe the new romantic comedy “Monster-In-Law” is to call it a female-oriented (and less funny) version of “Meet The Parents.” But while both films pivot around a couple going through the awkward, oft-humiliating first experience with the in-laws, “Monster-In-Law” is an insipid wreck of a movie that doesn’t even come close to reaching the comedic heights of the already overrated “Parents,” or, worse yet, its utterly inane sequel.

Charlie (Jennifer Lopez) is a temp worker who falls in love with Kevin (Michael Vartan, TV’s “Alias”). But when they go to meet his neurotic mother, Viola (Jane Fonda, “Nine to Five”), a former television personality, she plots to ruin the couple’s relationship. Nasty deeds, harsh words and catty backstabbing ensue.

When it comes to plot and characters, “Monster-In-Law” is strictly by the numbers. There’s the obligatory epiphany scene at the climax, when characters learn moral lessons that exist primarily to bring the film to a sappy close. Many of the supporting characters are also cookie cutter, like the former flame who tries to woo Kevin away and Charlie’s gay best friend, a media-obsessed stereotype who gives her love advice. Add to that the sophomoric humor (just how funny can food allergies and cathartic revenge fantasies be?), and it’s clear that director Robert Luketic (“Legally Blonde”) has lost his touch for comedic rhythm.

Meanwhile, Lopez makes Charlie a standard, nonchalant character without any real spunk or appeal. Vartan’s presence is equally puzzling, as he lacks any chemistry with Lopez. Thanks to Fonda, though, the film’s cast isn’t a complete waste. While it’s unclear why she chose this movie as her long-awaited return vehicle, Fonda is delightful as the nutty, overbearing title character.

Despite this, romantic comedies don’t get much more mundane than “Monster-In-Law.” Still, the movie marks an above-average comeback performance for Fonda, who has been away from Hollywood far too long. Hopefully, it won’t be another 15 years before audiences get to see the one-of-a-kind Oscar winner on the silver screen again.