Jennifer Lopez returns to the big screen in ‘Governess’

Jennifer Lopez will topline Yari Film Group’s romantic comedy “The Governess,” with Nigel Cole directing.

“The Governess” was written by Kevin Wade, who also penned Lopez starrer “Maid in Manhattan,” and Wendy Braff. Don Roos is polishing the script.

Story centers on a professional thief who, in order to pull off a major bank heist, poses as a nanny to the three unruly children of a wealthy widower. When she starts to fall for the kids and their father, she must decide if she can give up her past for a chance to start over.

Bob Yari will produce along with Sid Ganis, Alex Siskin and Simon Fields, Lopez’ producing partner. Shooting’s set to begin in Massachusetts in the fall.

“The Governess” has a SAG waiver. David Glasser, president of YFG’s sales arm Syndicate Films, will handle international sales.

Lopez is in pre-production on indie project “Love and Other Impossible Pursuits,” with Roos directing from his own script.

Cole previously directed “Calendar Girls.”

YFG recently wrapped production on thriller “Nothing But the Truth,” comedy “The Maiden Heist” and drama “Real Men Cry.” Joe Carnahan’s “Killing Pablo” is scheduled to begin filming in the fall.