Jacob Scipio on Using Intimacy Coordinator for Maintenance Required

Jacob Scipio and Madelaine Petsch star in the sizzling romantic comedy, Maintenance Required, which explores the complexities of on-screen romance, proving it’s not as straightforward as it appears.

Scipio, 32, revealed to Us Weekly that having an intimacy coordinator was crucial for filming steamy scenes. “It can be thrilling at first, but it quickly becomes a job as you navigate the logistics of filming intimate moments in front of a large crew,” he remarked. “By take 15, you’re just ready to get the scene done.”

He emphasized that on-screen intimacy involves navigating a delicate “choreography,” underscoring the importance of setting boundaries. “It’s essential to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable,” he noted. “Creating boundaries allows for creativity to flourish while respecting everyone’s feelings.”

Maintenance Required, which premiered on Prime Video on October 6, follows Charlie (Petsch), a mechanic striving to maintain her all-female repair shop in the face of competition from a big-name garage. She reaches out for support through an online message board, forming a bond with Beau (Scipio), only to discover he’s her competitor in real life.

Scipio expressed how enjoyable it was to work alongside Petsch, whose character Charlie transitions from love interest to rival. He commended the Riverdale star for balancing her dual roles as lead actor and executive producer. “She infuses so much heart and tenacity into Charlie, reflecting her real-life resilience as a passionate entrepreneur,” he shared. “Her dedication as both a producer and co-star was truly inspiring.”

“Her influence is visible throughout the film,” he quipped, adding humorously that it’s almost as if her “greasy, oil-stained fingerprints” are everywhere, even on him.

Scipio noted the undeniable chemistry between Beau and Charlie, cultivated during their off-screen interactions, while ensuring they preserved that spark for their scenes. “We saved a lot of our chemistry for the camera, allowing the passion and drama to shine on screen,” he explained.

Many have drawn parallels between Maintenance Required and the beloved ’90s classic You’ve Got Mail, where Meg Ryan plays a bookstore owner whose business faces competition from Tom Hanks’ corporate giant. Similar to Scipio and Petsch’s characters, Ryan and Hanks’ characters are oblivious to their real-life rivalry.

Scipio regards such comparisons to a film with such iconic stars as a high compliment. “We’re certainly following a legacy, and yes, our movie draws inspiration from You’ve Got Mail,” he stated. “Notably, that film itself was adapted from In the Good Old Summertime and earlier works, reaffirming this timeless narrative.”

He added, “Every adaptation showcases unique elements of its time. In our version, it incorporates a digital medium and the automotive world, but the essence remains the same: two individuals facing conflict, unknowingly united by a deeper connection.”

Identifying as a “hopeless romantic,” Scipio was thrilled to portray such a heartfelt character. “I was excited to embrace this role; it’s a departure from my usual action-packed roles where I’m often a villanous or heroic figure,” he shared. “I was eager to embody an everyman with a big heart.”

To fully realize Beau’s character, Scipio drew inspiration from ’90s R&B, advocating for the return of “yearning” characters who go above and beyond for love. “Imagining someone outside their beloved’s window, rain pouring down with a boombox—now that’s romance,” he said playfully.

In Scipio’s view, this is a prime moment to embrace the ongoing resurgence of romantic comedies, reminding audiences that “love exists even in the most surprising circumstances.” He expressed, “While I don’t believe this film will change the world, romantic comedies can change perspectives and evoke happiness, prompting viewers to look at life differently.” He hopes viewers will feel uplifted, inspired, and recognized as they watch, noting the story touches on universal experiences that resonate with everyone.

Maintenance Required is available for streaming on Prime Video now.