Why Not Call It "The Date Doctor?"

Rating: 6/10 (16 October 2005)

Hitch is an OK title for this flick and lets your mind play around with the word, i.e., "without a hitch." Still why not call it "The Date Doctor." It makes a lot more sense. Plus "Hitch" is the title of at least two other movies made in the past five years. Parts of the film are hilarious. Will Smith and Kevin James work well together. I especially liked their dance routines just before the closing credits appeared. But, alas, the movie also has several boring spots, particularly when Hitch and Sara (Eva Mendes)are attempting to connect without spending the night together. Why modern producers and directors think that all films have to be around two hours long or longer so theater goers won't feel cheated is beyond me. "Hitch" cries out for an hour and half time slot. With just a little more effort by those behind the camera this could have been a romantic comedy classic. As is, it's just a fairly clever, funny in spots, well-acted melodrama.
Words of wisdom are spoken from time to time by Hitch and others about the true meaning of modern relationships. Putting the pig Vance in his place was one of the high points of the movie. Of special note is the knee to the groin area he receives from Sara and then the long shot by the camera that immediately follows. Talk about divine retribution.
Though one reviewer for IMDb found the allergy scene unfunny, the reactions by Hitch such as the weird cough that's almost a burp brought laughs from the group watching the DVD with me. The follow up at the store where Hitch and Sara desperately seek medication that will relieve his suffering also brought a howl from the popcorn crowd.
Whereas many movies today end too abruptly before all the loose ends are tied, "Hitch" has a protracted ending or endings, for in truth there are three or four stitched together to try to satisfy everyone. Though wanting in several departments, "Hitch" is still worth seeing. Will Smith is at the top of his form. And the viewer should have a few good chuckles along the way.