One of Smith's best roles

Rating: Null/10 (2 April 2005)

Hitch (2005) Will Smith, Eva Mendez, Kevin James, Amber Valletta, Julie Ann Emery, D: Andy Tennant. Smith shows off his movie star magnetism and slickster charisma playing Hitch the Date Doctor, a New York City professional dating consultant who offers tips and coaching to hapless bachelors. His latest client is a shy and tubby accountant (James) who wants to win over a rich and beautiful socialite, but Hitch has his own problems when he starts to fall for smart gossip columnist Mendez, who has the power to see right through him. Even if it's a bit too long given the forgone conclusion, this entertaining romantic-comedy is both smart and funny (a rarity for today) without relying all on slapstick, and TV's sitcom King of Queens star James is hilarious. 115 min., rated PG-13. ***