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Hal Larson (Jack Black) is so fixated on looks that he cannot sustain meaningful relationships
with the women he dates or knows. By a stroke of fate, he gets stranded for several hours in an elevator with positive thinking guru Tony Robbins (Anthony Robbins) who advises
him to look into the inner person for true beauty. Hal gets brainwashed or "hypnotized" so that from then on, he sees only the internal beauty of people. He meets generous and
kindhearted Rosemary Shanahan (Gwyneth Paltrow) who is extremely obese at 300 lbs. and unattractive but whom he sees as the loveliest and most shapely girl in the world. They
fall in love. To add to his happiness, he gets promoted in the company of Rosemary's father. However, Hal's friends, especially his best friend Mauricio (Jason Alexander) are
dismayed and think him delusional. They exert efforts to have Hal "dehypnotized." Will Hal eventually see Rosemary as she really looks with her physical defects? Will he still
love her if that happens?
This film uses a variation of the mistaken identity device for comic effect. Because of his altered
perceptions, Hal sees and is attracted to a physical image different from what actually exists. This unusual situation leads to a few laughs but, sometimes, it can strain the
viewer's sense of credulity too much. Jack Black had been cited for supporting role performances, and here as Shallow Hal, he acquits himself creditably. Gwyneth Paltrow is
simply gorgeous. Her expressive eyes and face as well as her fine acting are a pleasure to watch. The script offers occasional one-liners which some viewers may enjoy quoting
and remembering.
Most of the jokes on obesity may not be blatantly offensive but some do make fun of the
heavyweights. In spite of its title, the film does contain statements of depth and value. It advocates looking at the person's inner worth rather than putting importance on
appearances. It underscores the need to decide for fidelity in love and the discipline to stand by that decision. Perhaps we may not be exactly head over heels attracted to a
hefty 300 pounder but neither do we overlook the fact that they are people with feelings. Fat, physically unattractive, defective or disabled, they have their own facets of
beauty and their own gifts. Our fellow travelers in life's spiritual journey, they deserve at least our respect and good will.
(Date reviewed: February 22, 2002)
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