Common Sense Media Review
Enjoyable Will Smith romcom has some cursing,
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Hitch
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 10 parent reviews
Based on 12 kid reviews
Kids say the movie is a hilarious romantic comedy that appeals to teens and older kids, despite containing some cursing and sexual references. While the humor is appreciated and many find it suitable for mature younger viewers, caution is advised for very young children due to its language and suggestive themes.
- funny
- romantic comedy
- language issues
- suitable for teens
- caution advised
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
This romantic comedy centers on date doctor Alex "Hitch" Hitchens (Will Smith), who advises men on how to appeal to the women of their dreams. He gives them tips on grooming and attire, reminds them to listen and respond, coaching them on just about everything. Hitch has it all figured out -- for other guys. His heart was broken once and he's never risked it again. Hitch's current assignment is a nebbishy accountant (Kevin James) who is in love with a beautiful heiress (Amber Valetta), whose love life is constantly documented by cynical, dubious gossip columnist Sarah (Eva Mendes). Meanwhile, unaware of Hitch's connection to the couple, Sarah goes on two dates with him, both of which develop serious, uh, hitches along the way.
Is It Any Good?
It's all familiar, and enjoyable, romantic comedy territory -- evasions, followed by complications, humiliations, the course of true love not running smoothly, and then a bit more smoothly. And then not smoothly again. Kevin James is wonderfully sweet and funny. His uninhibited dance is sublime, but so is the look on his face when he hands the heiress a pen, almost overcome by the thrill of giving her something.
The movie's biggest asset is Smith, who has everything it takes to be a romantic comedy superstar. His timing is perfection and he masters all kinds of comedy -- physical and verbal, high and low. No one is better at talking to the camera than he is. Mendes' lackluster performance is the result of a faulty script that leaves promising set-ups unfinished to pursue less interesting ideas. If it does not knock it out of the park, it at least qualifies as a triple, a pleasant date movie with one great performer, several laughs, and a couple of smiles.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the idea of a "date doctor." Do you think it's OK for people to have help finding love, or should love happen on its own terms?
How does Hitch change during the course of the movie? Who are some of the other characters who change? Who doesn't seem to change?
What are some of the ways in which this movie meets the criteria of being a "romantic comedy?"
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 11, 2005
- On DVD or streaming : June 14, 2005
- Cast : Eva Mendes , Kevin James , Will Smith
- Director : Andy Tennant
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Latino Movie Actor(s) , Black Movie Actor(s)
- Studio : Sony Pictures
- Genre : Comedy
- Run time : 115 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language and some strong sexual references
- Award : NAACP Image Award - NAACP Image Award Nominee
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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