Twenty years after the events of the first film, Charlie (Jennifer Lopez) and Kevin (Michael Vartan) are still happily married with a 19-year-old daughter, Sofia. The story kicks off when Sofia brings home her new boyfriend, James, whose mother happens to be a famous social media influencer and lifestyle guru, Victoria Sterling (potentially played by Sandra Bullock).

The dynamic shifts when Charlie, now a successful art gallery owner, finds herself transforming into the very thing she once feared – an overprotective mother who’s suspicious of her daughter’s choice in partners. Meanwhile, Viola (Jane Fonda), now a doting grandmother, watches with amusement as her former adversary Charlie struggles with the same protective instincts she once criticized.

The situation becomes increasingly complicated when James proposes to Sofia during their college graduation. Charlie, channeling her inner Viola, begins investigating Victoria’s seemingly perfect social media empire, discovering it’s mostly smoke and mirrors. Victoria, in turn, sees Charlie’s family as “too traditional” and attempts to modernize Sofia’s outlook on life, creating a rift between mother and daughter.

Viola, now in her 80s but sharp as ever, becomes the voice of reason (ironically), trying to prevent Charlie from making the same mistakes she made years ago. The tension reaches its peak during a disastrous engagement party where both families’ secrets and insecurities come to light in a social media livestream disaster.

The heart of the story focuses on Charlie’s journey of self-discovery as she realizes she’s become what she once fought against, while Sofia must navigate between two strong-willed families. Through a series of humorous and heartfelt moments, Charlie learns to let go, Victoria learns the value of authenticity over perception, and Sofia finds her own voice.

The film concludes with a wedding that brings both families together, with Viola delivering a touching speech about how love and family transcend generational differences. Charlie finally understands her former mother-in-law’s perspective, completing a full-circle moment that began two decades ago.

The story serves as both a commentary on modern family dynamics and social media influence while maintaining the humor and heart of the original film.