Hitch (2005) starring Will Smith and Eva Mendes is one of those classic rom-coms that never fails to put a smile on your face. The movie is a delightful journey filled with humor, romance, and that undeniable chemistry between the lead actors. However, one particular aspect of the film has continued to spark debate among fans years after its release.
The Controversial Apology Scene
In “Hitch,” Will Smith plays Alex “Hitch” Hitchens, a professional “date doctor” who helps men win the hearts of the women they desire. His smooth methods hit a snag when he falls for Sara Melas, played by Eva Mendes, a savvy gossip columnist. Their budding romance faces a major hurdle when Sara exposes Hitch’s profession, leading to public humiliation for him.
In the film’s climactic moment, Hitch goes to extraordinary lengths to apologize to Sara, even though she was the one who exposed him without hearing his side of the story. This grand gesture, which includes Hitch chasing after Sara’s car and dramatically declaring his love, has left many fans puzzled and dissatisfied.
Fans React to Hitch’s Apology
The ending scene where Hitch apologizes to Sara has been a point of contention. Many fans feel that the dynamic of the apology was unbalanced. Here are some of the reactions from fans:
Unhappy Fans
“I never understood why he was the one apologizing and going all out his way for her. I mean my dude she was the one who blew everything up like, what?!?”
Hitch gave men who had little to no self-esteem…the confidence that they could find a romantic partner. He helped so many people, yet she publicly exposes him….ruins his reputation, his career, etc based on FALSE INFORMATION. Yet she’s the one that he has to run after and apologize to?? Gimme a break.”
“Overall a good movie, but I do get annoyed that it’s an automatic rule in the romantic comedy genre that no matter how wrong or bad the woman is, it’s the man who runs after her and it’s up to her to accept him or not…She wrote an article based on false information and destroyed this man’s reputation and career, not to mention significantly damaged many genuine relationships. Yet he is the one going after her because he sees the error in his ways and when does she ever even apologize?”
Mixed Feelings
Not all fans were critical, with some appreciating Hitch’s dedication. However, the overall consensus appears to lean towards dissatisfaction with the way Hitch’s apology was handled.
A Sequel on the Horizon?
Eva Mendes has expressed interest in revisiting the world of “Hitch.” During an interview with Entertainment Tonight at the 2020 Create & Cultivate Conference, Mendes hinted at the possibility of a sequel, stating, “You know what? It’s time for a Hitch 2. Will, let’s do this. Hitch 2.”
A New Era of Dating
Mendes proposed a modern twist for the sequel, incorporating the world of dating apps. In today’s digital age, the concept of a “date doctor” might seem outdated, presenting a unique challenge for Hitch in navigating modern dating norms. Mendes suggested, “It’d be in the world of all these dating apps. What would Hitch do? He’d be out of a job.”
The Legacy of Hitch
Despite the mixed feelings about the film’s ending, “Hitch” remains a beloved rom-com classic. Its blend of humor, romance, and memorable performances by Will Smith and Eva Mendes ensures its place in the hearts of many fans. The conversation around its ending highlights the evolving perspectives on relationships and gender dynamics in romantic comedies.