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Shallow Hal poster

Shallow Hal (2001)

2001 • 1h 54m • Fantasy, Drama • PG-13
On September 20, 2026
#313785
3137th by Pulse movie online
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All reviews

Kamurai on Shallow Hal

7/10 · Jul 26, 2020

This was a really enjoyable film; I’d happily watch it again and feel comfortable suggesting it to others. To be upfront, I don't typically care for the actors involved—Jack Black, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jason Alexander—though that doesn't mean I dislike their talents, nor is this limited to just these roles, as everyone seemed to do a commendable job. The story’s intricate nature led them to present it in a lighthearted and accessible way, so everything feels softened and rounded off. Hal functions as a deliberately unremarkable character intended to make him likable and relatable, but he's actually meant to represent the audience itself—those with expectations. Mauricio seems to embody our tendencies toward self-criticism and undermining ourselves; whenever we receive something we feel unworthy of, we tend to push it away. Even Rosemarie is portrayed as a generalized view of women (though admittedly simplified in this movie made by a man), and by blending the idea of taught beauty—something Jack clearly picked up from his father—with genuine connection, you can discover real happiness with people who might be important to you beyond just their appearance. The film and I aren't "celebrating obesity" (which is what some people claim), and it’s certainly still important to strive for self-improvement, but someone's size shouldn't be the defining factor. It brings up genuine concerns about work life, which detracts from the escapism somewhat, but it does so in such a quirky, amusing, and thoughtful manner that they’re easy to disregard.

Source on TMDB

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