Will, Will, Will

Rating: Null/10 (17 February 2005)

Plot Overview: Will Smith plays Alex Hitchens, a self-appointed "Love Doctor" who helps less than desirable men even the playing field in order to date their ideal woman. His latest client is chubby yet lovable Albert played by Kevin James. While Hitch helps Albert woo the woman of his dreams, he finds himself smitten by gossip columnist Sara played by Eva Mendes.
It is not unusual for Will Smith to make an incredible film. It is not atypical for him to make you laugh and feel. To acknowledge the sparkle in his eyes when he smiles while of course mentioning the multi-dimensions to his sex appeal would be as redundant as an observation on the color of the sky. And yet I feel compelled to do all of the above. As an actor, Will Smith has achieved a Denzellian colorless quality. In other words, like Denzel, he can play roles with no regard of race. This film was a testament to that. I did not see a black man love-struck over Eva Mendes I simply saw a man. That's talent.
Chemistry is important. I didn't think so in high school when I was barely passing Mr. Ishakis' class. However, when I watch a moviewell, I get it now. I was not impressed with the chemistry between Mendes and Smith. I found her as boring as I found him interesting. I understood the dynamic between the two characters, the man-hating feminist being the only woman to properly challenge the Love Doctor. Still, I wasn't completely convinced that he should end up with her at the end. And is not that very conviction vital to any romantic film? (See when Harry met Sally, Love and Basketball, etc) Nevertheless, this movie was much more good than bad.
Chemistry is important. And I loved the chemistry between Kevin James and Will Smith. James in my opinion has been an underrated and overlooked comedian for many years. This may perhaps prove to be a breakout film for him and garner him some overdue attention.
Like most romantic comedies this movie had its share of tripe. It seems one of the characters always has to leave town and there is usually a predictable last minute chase. Despite that, it was refreshing to see characters work so hard to make love happen. This movie brought romance and the art of "the woo" back to the black man. Perhaps it can serve as a jolt to the many amnesiacs brainwashed by misogynist rap lyrics. I get to put a lot of my own two cents into these editorials That's why I'm so right for this job.