Is a motion for judgment as a matter of law reviewed de novo?

Otis argues that the district court erred in denying its motion for a judgment as a matter of law. A denial of a motion for judgment as a matter of law is reviewed de novo. In re Hawaii Federal Asbestos Cases, 960 F.2d 806, 816 (9th Cir.1992). The reviewing court's role is the same as the district court's. McGonigle v. Combs, 968 F.2d 810, 816 (9th Cir.), cert. dismissed, 113 S.Ct. 399 (1992). "[A] directed verdict is proper when the evidence permits only one reasonable conclusion as to the verdict." Id.