by Kristin Ciliberto, Contributing Writer
Honestly, watching this latest Hulu release, The Valet, reminded me of other films similar to Win a Date with Tad Hamilton, Notting Hill, and most recently Jennifer Lopez’s latest film, Marry Me. This is a film based on the 2006 Francis Veber film of the same name, but with some fresh touches and tweaks along with a remarkable chemistry between the leads. The Valet is a sweet little film.
Successful Hollywood actress Olivia Allan (Samara Weaving) is set to premiere her new film, a biopic of Amelia Earhart; however, she is faced with a messy situation. Olivia has to cover up her affair with a billionaire real estate developer Vincent Royce (Max Greenfield), who is married to Kathryn (Betsy Brandt). The paparazzi snapped of photo of them along with a humble and diligent Mexican parking valet Antonio Flores (Eugenio Derbez). Vincent does not want to divorce Kathryn, and Olivia does not want her film to bomb, so Antonio is thrown into the limelight when he has to pose as her lover to cover up her relationship.
Directed by Richard Wong, the plot is a fairly familiar premise of pretend lovers. This film offers new elements, which include a talented and comedic Latin talent; it also adds a diverse cast including Latinos and Koreans. The characters offer substance and do not come off as one-dimensional. Derbez and Weaving are so likable, and their characters have a lot of personality. Both need something the other has to offer, and the film does a great job exploring the characters’ growth. Derbez is able to connect with audiences as a man who is a quiet, nice guy who just wants to support his family. Antonio isn’t used to all of the fame, and he has no idea how to act during a red carpet event. Derbez is so sweet in this role it makes it impossible not to admire his charm. Weaving is a bombshell actress starring in films like Ready or Not and Bill and Ted Face the Music, and she most recently appeared in the series Nine Perfect Strangers. Weaving continues to grow as an actress, and stars in knockout roles each time; she does an excellent job. Her character is self-centered, but a has a lot of charisma. Carmen Salinas, who stars as Antonio’s mother Cecilia, has great comedic timing with Derbez, and is given the best one-liners in the film.
While Bob Fisher and Rob Greenberg give the original screenplay a facelift, the film starts to follow previous romantic comedies beat for beat. But once the second act hits, it all clicks! There are some subplots that are added to the mix that take away from what is more important and what is at stake.
The ending isn’t exactly what most audiences expect. It is sincere and shows the power and growth of the relationship their friendship finds, which is a meaningful connection. The film celebrates themes of family and how life isn’t about fame or fortunate. The Valet is sweet and endearing, with plenty of charm due to spot-on casting and performances — it is definitely a crowd pleaser.
Score: 7/10