When a movie advertises that it can help good guys get the girl of their dreams, you would expect RPI males to flock toward the theaters. Hitch is filled with one-liners and funny scenes, but is rather predictable and will leave the desperate male looking for tips, and still eagerly searching.
The basic plot of the movie involves Will Smith as Alex “Hitch” Hitchens, otherwise known as the “Date Doctor.” Hitch’s referral business is to help average nice guys attract, and be successful, in their relationships with girls out of their league. His current job is to transform Albert (Kevin James), a junior accountant, into the best possible version of himself so he can attract Allegra (Amber Valetta), a rich, gorgeous celebrity.
Where the plot thickens is that while Hitch is able to successfully transform what seem to be hopeless males, he has yet to actually put his own preaching into practice. This is where Sara (Eva Mendes) falls into play. While in the process of shaping Albert, he falls for Sara, a gossip columnist who keeps tabs on the life of Allegra. The rest of the movie involves Hitch attempting to woo Sara, while Sara is an independent, assertive woman, trying not to be charmed.
As I entered the theater, I was interested in seeing if it actually had any good tips for the average guy. While seated in the theater, I observed a wide variety of people around me. There were plenty of the expected teenagers and college-aged kids, but there were also a lot of moms with little rascals running up and down the aisles, as well as a few couples who probably qualified for Medicare.
The movie may be for women, but it sometimes made them seem shallow and easily manipulated. For the single RPI guy looking for advice, the ending is more teeny bopper than realistically dramatic.
What Hitch does provide is many comedic moments, albeit in its slightly long 119 minute screening. The dance scene where Hitch attempts to coach Albert is hilarious, with Albert doing his own dance move called “makin’ the pizzas,” that would make the guys down at Pizza Bella proud, or awfully ashamed.
Hitch provides basic tips that any person should know (no staring, mouth closed, no slouching,and learn to listen), but fails to deliver usable, fresh tips. The plot seems too surreal, and the ending leaves something to be desired. It provides a few laughs, but leaves you with little lasting value other than some dreadful dance moves. I guess that is what you would expect with a romantic comedy.
