Most people who know me well know Jack Black is one of my least favorite people in Hollywood. But, as a movie critic I can't be biased. So I'll just review one of my favorites of his. Shallow Hal is about the teachings of being not-so-shallow.
Jack Black plays Hal, a 30-something partyman who likes to boogie down at the clubs with his best friend (played by Jason Alexander). They both love hot women with the best bodies. But at the same time Hal realizes he is not that lucky with women. Then Hal gets stuck in an elevator with self-help guru Tony Robbins (appearing as himself) and explains his situation and gets 'hypnotized' by him. Soonafter, Hal meets several beautiful women in his eyes, and eventually Rosemary (Gwyneth Paltrow) catches his eye. Rosemary, who is his boss's daughter (unbeknownst to Hal) is actually extremely obese, but in Hal's eyes she is a slim, slender athletic woman with a dynamic personality. Hal starts to gain respect and turn a few heads, except for his best friend, who is wondering what is going on.
The film was criticized for putting overweight/fat/(whatever politically correct term you find) people in a negative light. A lot did get the message about shallowness and hypocrisy. In other words, if you want a girl with a great body, go get one of your own! But we see Hal learn a lot about himself, and what's inside that counts. Tony Robbins even puts on a great performance, as does Gwyneth in her fatsuit.
My rating: 7 out of 10
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