Judy Thorburn's Movie Reviews
Hitch
- Details
- Category: Judy Thorburn
- Published on 23 November 2008
- Written by Judy Thorburn
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“HITCH” IS CHARMING AND UP-TO-DATE
Based on the movie trailers, I thought Hitch was going to be just another one of those silly/stupid disposable romantic comedies. Boy, was I mistaken. In fact, I was pleasantly surprised by the charming and enjoyable script by first time screenwriter Kevin Bisch that delves into the problems men have trying to connect with the right woman. Simply put, lots of men in general don’t have a clue on how to approach the woman of their dreams. That’s where Hitch comes in, teaching the winning ways to any woman’s heart, even if he, himself, has trouble practicing what he preaches since having had his own heart broken back in college.
Returning to his comedy roots, after a detour fighting off aliens and robots in action movies, is the very likeable, charismatic Will Smith once again displaying the impeccable humor, charm and suave that has helped make him a star on and off the screen. He’s the man of the title, Hitch, short for Alex Hitchins, earning a living as the anonymous, so called “date doctor”, who says, “Any man has the chance to sweep any woman off her feet. All he needs is the right broom”. With Hitch’s prescription for love, it will only take a guy three dates and a first kiss to tell a woman what they need to know about the relationship. But, and he stands firm, Hitch only works with men who sincerely like and respect women. Since Hitch’s business is 100% referral, sleazy players out to score a one nightstand are turned down, while love struck losers are welcomed fellows in dire need for help in capturing romance. Think of Alfie, the irresponsible Englishman with a love’em and leave‘em attitude, and the very opposite is Hitch - honorable with good intentions.
Enter Al Brennerman (Kevin James) a fat and klutzy good-hearted accountant who, being insecure and afraid to make a move, is eager to learn the ropes. Al is madly in love with gorgeous client, celebrity heiress (think Paris Hilton, but with a lot more class) Allegra Cole (model/actress Amber Valletta, Raising Helen) a woman who would appear way out of his league. James is a great physical comedian who has very funny scenes opposite Will Smith playing the straight man. Who would figure that this casting of total opposites would work so brilliantly, but it does. Whether hanging out in the bathroom with his pants off, doing outrageously funny dance moves or puckering up for a kiss in a training moment with fresh “Prince” Smith, the “King” of Queens, chubabub James is hysterical and lovable at the same time.
Smoldering beauty, Eva Mendes (her face always reminds me of a young Raquel Welch) comes into the picture as hot shot gossip columnist Sara, anxious to capture a juicy photo or exclusive story about the heiress for her newspaper. This is the first time I’ve seen Eva display some quality acting ability and there is some genuine chemistry with Smith.
When we first meet Sara, she comes across as the bitter ice queen with a protective wall up, who based on her experience with the opposite sex, thinks there aren’t any good men left. No surprise, she meets up with Hitch, who tells her he is a “consultant”, but not explaining for what and whom. The usual flirtations, verbal sparring and dating ensue. But, when Sara’s best friend Casey (Julie Ann Emery) complains about being deceived and dumped by some cad that turns out to be one of Hitch’s dishonorable rejects, wrong assumptions and the twisting of facts causes complications all around. It appears the “date doctor” has trouble curing his own problems.
We all know the formula, nothing that isn’t predictable. Boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl back. But Hitch offers more than that. The dialogue is sharp, witty and clever spoken by an appealing cast. When the misunderstandings are settled, it all comes together in a warm and fuzzy sweet ending.
This romantic comedy that both men and women can relate to and enjoy is being released just in time for Valentine’s Day. What perfect timing to get “Hitch”ed!