Shallow Hal

Hal Larson frequently visits upscale clubs in the city, where he has fleeting interactions with many attractive women. Despite the allure of these encounters, he is left with a pervasive sense of emptiness that shadows his nights.

During the day, Hal is stuck in a monotonous role at JPS Funds, which exacerbates his feelings of stagnation and dissatisfaction with life. This split between his nightlife and work leaves him longing for something more meaningful.

Hal finds himself repeatedly rejected by his attractive neighbor, Jill. These constant dismissals contribute significantly to his discontent and feelings of inadequacy in pursuing meaningful relationships.

Hal's life takes a dramatic turn after an unexpected encounter with motivational speaker Tony Robbins in an elevator. Hypnotized by Tony’s presence, Hal's perspective on beauty becomes profoundly altered.

Post-hypnosis, Hal's newfound perception allows him to appreciate inner beauty over superficial looks. His first experience of this transformation is with Rosemary, who is overweight, but Hal sees her radiant spirit instead.

Hal's best friend, Mauricio, becomes increasingly worried about Hal's fixation on Rosemary. Observing Hal’s infatuation, Mauricio feels compelled to intervene and seeks to end the hypnotherapy spell that has clouded Hal's judgment.

During a critical dinner date, Rosemary expresses her desire to join the Peace Corps for 14 months in Kiribati. This life-changing opportunity prompts Mauricio to trigger the hypnosis counterphrase, leading Hal to confront the truth about Rosemary’s physical appearance.

As Hal grapples with the discovery of Rosemary’s true appearance, their relationship enters a difficult phase. Hal struggles to balance his appreciation for inner beauty with the harsh reality of physicality, causing an emotional rift between him and both Jill and Rosemary.

In a dinner meeting with Jill, Hal begins to attain a deeper understanding of true beauty and the significance of his emotions. This realization becomes a pivotal moment that guides him back to Rosemary, who is unexpectedly at the same restaurant.

Hal's world is shaken when he learns that Rosemary’s former partner, Ralph, wishes to reconnect. Faced with this challenge, Hal becomes determined to win back Rosemary’s heart and prove his love for her.

While on his quest to find Rosemary, Hal meets Cadence, a burn-scarred young patient at the clinic where Rosemary volunteers. This encounter forces Hal to rethink his definitions of beauty and inspires him to pursue Rosemary with renewed clarity.

During a heart-to-heart, Mauricio reveals his jealousy over Hal's happiness and discusses his own difficulties with an inoperable tail. With Hal’s support, Mauricio begins to embrace his uniqueness, showcasing the depth of their friendship.

Determined to reclaim Rosemary, Hal visits the Peace Corps recruitment center and confronts Ralph about her plans. He learns that Rosemary is indeed preparing for her mission, sparking Hal’s resolve to attend her farewell party.

Hal, Mauricio, and Ralph attend Rosemary's farewell party at her family home. Initially hesitant, Hal pours out his heart to Rosemary, leading to a rekindled connection amidst her preparations for the Peace Corps.

In a heartwarming moment, Hal attempts to lift Rosemary into their car despite his physical limitations. The gesture touches Rosemary deeply, as she reciprocates by lifting Hal onto her shoulders, symbolizing the strength of their bond as they drive into the sunset.