The Valet is a 2022 American rom-com film, where you might think you will find your typical “fake relationship” story. However, the film, which is full of heart, does more than that. It showcases characters who are struggling to get through problems, the way society views the underrepresented, and the importance of not what we are, but who we are.
Courtesy of Hulu
This picture is a remake of the 2006 French film of the same name, directed by Richard Wong. Wong does a great job of capturing moments of seriousness and comedy at the same time. He makes the balance seem effortless. Wong did have some help from a charming cast, some doting cultural concreteness and sunshiny Los Angeles skies. The Valet absolutely proves that remakes can be done in a new and refreshing way that can be enjoyed by everyone.
Courtesy of Hulu
The story begins with the main character — Antonio Flores (Eugenio Derbez) — hardworking valet and unambitious, who tries to make ends meet. Flores lives with his mother that he adores and desperately wants to be back with his ex-wife Isabel. Flores tries his best to be a good father and a role model for his son Marco but finds himself struggling at times.
At the same time, we are introduced to Olivia Alan (Samara Weaving), famous actress, who is preparing for her latest movie premiere. Alan is living the life she is used to, one of no financial worries, living her best life. Alan does spend time at the company she runs, which focused on woman and health. Her only problem is that she deals with paparazzi who are always trying to get that exclusive.
With two characters living such different lives, it would seem impossible that the two would have anything in common. However, as they always say all of us can connect with one another on a human level if we just listen. These two characters stumbled across each other in the most random way possible. In doing so, we find that Olivia is having an affair with Vincent: billionaire, who’s married to another women. So as you can imagine things begin to get complicated pretty quickly.
Courtesy of Hulu
Everything is turned upside down after a small quarrel between lovers, one paparazzi photo and a threat to have all their secrets exposed. In order to protect everyone’s image, all three find themselves involve in a deal — Olivia pretends she’s dating Antonio so that her reputation stays intact and while also preventing Vincents wife from finding out about the affair.
Wong really gives viewers a gift as you find yourself deeply involved in the characters lives and invested in not only how this is all going to turn out but also in learning more about them. You find yourself leaning in to see how difficult it is to be in someone else’s shoes. Derbez, is a pleasure to behold as Flores. His character predisposes the viewer to himself from the first minutes because he is so simple, funny, sincere and warm-hearted. You feel sympathy for this man, as he struggles with so many things including appearing invisible to the world. In one moment he is a regular guy dealing with every day problems and the next he is thrusted into this world of luxury he has never know. Derbez is able to balance out both worlds perfectly and with the charm of an angel. His performance is both astounding and believable.
Courtesy of Hulu
Meanwhile, the same can be said for Weaving who truly embodies Allan. She transforms herself completely making her the idea actor to play this role. Weaving is able to portray all reactions and emotions with a comfortability that makes the audience laugh yet understand her. Weaving also brings life to what could be deemed a “typical” rich girl and humanizes her in a way that makes her both intriguing yet interesting. We learn there is a lot more to her than we originally though when the film begins.
Allan has self-confidence and anxiety which is why she desperately needs someone, who will love her not for her money and fame but for herself which is something she has been struggling to find. It was important to show her mental health issues to provide some depth to a character that everyone watching probably judged within the first few minutes. These additional elements Wong brings in, allows for viewers to change their initial reactions and thoughts. This perception shift parallels exactly what the characters are going through in the film.
Both Derbez and Weaving are able to create a chemistry between them that helps the audience buy into their characters becoming friends and truly getting to know one another. The characters learn from each other and begin to develop an understanding of each others perspectives.
Additionally, it would be impossible to watch this movie without the presence of the supporting cast which includes the rich husband and wife, play by Max Greenfield and Betsy Brandt. Their relationship gives us a peak behind the curtain of their money revealing that while you can feel that you have achieved everything and might possess all you could ever imagine, it will never be enough. As they say, money can not buy you happiness. Greenfield and Brandt are amazing supporting cast members that not only add hilarious moments to the film but are also playing two people so unpredictable it helps prevent the story from being another cliché. Greenfield is funny, charming, and hilarious — he has a real genuine way of acting that just makes you want to see more. Meanwhile Brandt is a powerhouse on screen taking over most scenes she is in dominating the lines and living her character. Both Greenfield and Brandt are forces to be reckoned with and add much needed content to this film.
Courtesy of Hulu
For Wong it’s clear that the main trump card of the film is humor. It’s always on topic and is used in ways to show the struggle and real life issues without pressing too hard on the topic or come off as preaching. He balances the tough with the love, the struggles with the happiness, and the stereotypes with the truth. It’s a job well done for all involved.
While not trying to give too much away, towards the end of the film there is a moment with one of the characters who gives a moving speech. This speech is truly a moment all should hear.
This movie touches so many strings of your soul and is a masterpiece. It is one that is worth multiple watches. The movie is currently streaming now on Hulu.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Check out the trailer below:
Watch the film now on HULU.
Polina graduated from State University of Management in 2011 with a qualification of Publicity Specialist majoring in "Advertising" and has a diploma of professional training at the Academy of Communications "Wordshop" specializing in Digital-specialist. She has completed courses in copywriting and creative writing in 2019 and continues to develop these skills every day.
Polina is always ready to learn something new and challenging and expand her talents. She is obsessed with watching TV shows and movies and loves to discuss this topic on social networks with like-minded people.
