Shallow Hal

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Shallow Hal

Shallow Hal is a 2001 American romantic comedy film directed by the Farrelly brothers. The film stars Jack Black as Hal, a shallow man who, after being hypnotized by self-help guru Tony Robbins, sees only the inner beauty of women. Gwyneth Paltrow plays Rosemary, a woman who Hal sees as physically beautiful due to his altered perception.

Plot[edit | edit source]

The film follows Hal as he navigates his newfound ability to see inner beauty. Despite his friends' confusion and skepticism, Hal falls in love with Rosemary, who he sees as a slender and conventionally attractive woman. As their relationship develops, Hal learns valuable lessons about true beauty and the importance of looking beyond physical appearances.

Cast[edit | edit source]

  • Jack Black as Hal
  • Gwyneth Paltrow as Rosemary
  • Jason Alexander as Mauricio
  • Joe Viterelli as Steve Shanahan
  • Rene Kirby as Walt
  • Bruce McGill as Reverend Larson

Production[edit | edit source]

Shallow Hal was filmed primarily in North Carolina. The Farrelly brothers aimed to deliver a comedic yet heartfelt message about beauty and perception. The film's makeup and visual effects were crucial in portraying Hal's altered reality.

Reception[edit | edit source]

Upon its release, Shallow Hal received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised its humor and message, others criticized its portrayal of body image and stereotypes. Despite this, the film found success at the box office and has since gained a cult following.

Legacy[edit | edit source]

Shallow Hal remains a notable entry in the Farrelly brothers' filmography, known for its unique premise and performances. The film's exploration of beauty standards and inner qualities continues to spark discussions about societal perceptions of attractiveness.

See also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD