formulaic but held together with some good performances

Rating: 7/10 (27 April 2005)

First off there is nothing new about Hitch. It contains all the clichés of rom-coms and adds nothing new. What it does have is a likable lead performance from Will Smith which carries the movie.
Without the right leading man Hitch could have been terrible but Smith is perfect. He makes Hitch cool and likable and is a very good comedy actor. Eva Mendes does her job well as the cynical object of Hitch's affections who is eventually won over but the best supporting role comes from Hitch's hapless client Albert. Albert is almost so pathetic that you want him to get the girl he shouldn't be able to. He also gets the films funniest moment.
The New York setting works well and is used to add to the film rather than just be a setting. Overall Hitch is enjoyable formulaic fun which is helped by some good performances. Recommended.