Shallow Hal
2001 · Directed by Bobby Farrelly, Peter Farrelly
Original language: English
- comedy
- fantasy
- romance
The story
After taking his dying father's advice, Hal dates only the embodiments of female physical perfection. But that all changes after Hal has an unexpected run-in with self-help guru Tony Robbins. Intrigued by Hal's shallowness, Robbins hypnotizes him into seeing the beauty that exists even in the least physically appealing women. Hal soon falls for Rosemary, but he doesn't realize that his gorgeous girlfriend is actually a 300-pound-not-so-hottie.
What it’s like
Bright, evenly lit studio comedy with saturated pastel interiors, glossy suburban sets and sunny outdoor scenes that stay cheerful even when the story turns sour. The camera is mostly plain and unfussy, favoring medium two-shots and quick cuts for the gags, and the palette leans on candy-coloured wardrobes and warm domestic rooms. Music is upbeat pop and cheesy romantic cues, with the soundtrack doing much of the emotional work. The vibe is breezy, goofy and sweet, the kind of easy watch for a lazy weekend afternoon or a comfort rewatch with friends. Pacing is brisk and sitcom-like, with one scene tumbling into the next and sincerity arriving in short, earnest bursts. Its people's arc is a shallow, self-absorbed man slowly learning to look past appearances. Intensity is low: crude jokes, sexual innuendo and some bathroom humour, frequent profanity, a parent's death and hospital scenes handled with light touch, and no real violence or gore. Best for viewers who want a silly, warm-hearted romantic comedy with a clear moral and few sharp edges.
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