Movie Review: “Hitch” will have you hooked
PG-13Grade: B+
Alex Hitchins is the date doctor who proudly proclaims that any man has the chance to find love with any woman as long as they have the proper guidance.
Hitch, as he is called by his clients, is the super chic and super suave teacher of various men who seem to be hopeless cases for romance. By helping them develop magnetism and charisma along with creating the right opportunity, Hitch makes seemingly impossible relationships end happily ever after.
With the premise of the film established within the first five minutes, we are taken to Hitch’s (Will Smith, “I, Robot”) next client Albert (Kevin James, “The King of Queens”) a shy, overweight, nerdy accountant who has his heart set on Allegra (Amber Valletta, “Raising Helen”), who just happens to be an international celebrity. Hitch pleasantly takes Albert under his wing and begins teaching him the basics to sweep Allegra off her feet. The relationship between Albert and Hitch is hilarious and the most memorable moments of humor come from their interaction with each other.
To add to the complexity and humor of the story, at the same time Albert is attempting to win Allegra, Hitch is on a conquest of his own. He unexpectedly meets Sara (Eva Mendes, “Stuck On You”) a headstrong gossip columnist with the sex appeal and confidence that rivals his own.
Since Hitch is the date doctor he should know exactly how to sweep Sara off her feet, right? He soon realizes that any man in love experiences trouble as a smooth operator.
This film sends a great message to audiences of all generations. When trying to impress a beautiful lady, it is not necessary to “improve” who you are, or put on an act to get their love and attention. In romance, you can still be effective if you just be yourself. James expresses this message most powerfully as the unskilled and unconfident dope who never stops trying to get the love of his life. His facial expressions and physical comedy are supreme and look perfectly natural.
The film’s message, although terribly overdone, brings hope to all men and reality to all women, making it a perfect date movie. Sadly, the story is filled with cliché one-liners and predictable endings to many scenes. These cheesy elements of the film are counterbalanced by the wonderful acting and great comic timing that every character portrays. Smith could very easily have been annoying and snobbish as Hitch but the realism and humor he puts into the character makes him endearing. The chemistry between Smith and Mendes is perfect, causing their moments of flirting to be just as entertaining as their moments of arguing.
Despite the inherent cheesiness, there is some great dialogue that exudes sharp and witty punch lines. With clever editing, a few unexpected surprises and a good balance of comedy and love, “Hitch” is an enjoyable film that will keep you on your toes.
Casey T. Allen is a junior majoring in English and reviews movies for the Utah Statesman. Comments may be sent to him at caseyal@cc.usu.edu