10 Movies Like ‘Shallow Hal’ You Need to See That Looks Beyond Appearances

By Romey Norton
Published: September 27, 2023 (Last updated: 4 weeks ago)
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10 Movies like Shallow Hal you must watch
Gwyneth Paltrow as Rosemary in Shallow Hal (Credit - 20th Century Fox)

When talking of classic rom-coms, Shallow Hal will appear on many lists. I’ve broken down 10 movies like it in the article below. Shallow Hal is the 2001 comedy romance film starring Jack Black and Gwyneth Paltrow. The story revolves around Hal, a very shallow man who will only date fit and attractive women.

After being hypnotized only to see “inner beauty,” kind people are portrayed as appearing beautiful, and horrible people are portrayed as ugly. Hal falls in love with a girl named Rosemary, who he does not realize is obese.

There’s Something About Mary (1998) 

Romantic-comedy drama starring Ben Stiller and Cameron Diaz still stands as one of the funniest films ever. Ted, a big geek, tracks down his high-school sweetheart, Mary, using a private detective. He soon realizes he’s got a lot of people to compete with in order to impress and win her affection, including the private detective.

You, Me and Dupree (2006)

A seemingly perfect couple, Carl and Molly let their happy-go-lucky friend Dupree move in with them for a few days when he loses his job. However, they soon realize that Dupree has no intention of leaving. Starring Owen Wilson, Kate Hudson, and Matt Dillon, this film is a fun watch after Shallow Hal

Me, Myself & Irene (2000)

If you’re a fan of Jim Carrey, this is the film for you. Kind and introverted Police officer Charlie has to deal with Hank, his dangerous, intense alter ego, while escorting Irene to New York. However, Hank takes over his personality multiple times through his journey, making it one they all won’t forget. 

What Women Want (2000)

Smooth-talking advertising executive Nick Marshall has enough ego for us all, but what happens to a chauvinistic guy when he can suddenly hear what women are thinking? After being electrocuted, Casanova’s life is turned upside down when he can hear the thoughts of every woman around him. 

Just Like Heaven (2005)

David moves into a new apartment and quickly discovers it’s haunted by the previous tenant. For her to leave, he’s got to help her recall memories of her life. This film is a feel-good rom-com with great acting, a fun storyline, and a wholesome ending. 

You’ve Got Mail (1998)

Set where the internet was emerging, emailing was the new love-letter writing. Kathleen and Joe, who are business rivals, connected online. When Joe finds out, he tries all the tricks he can to get Kathleen to fall for him in real life without letting her know he’s her online best friend. It’s a classic rom-com about self-discovery and finding true love. 

Sliding Doors (1998)

If you loved Gwyneth Paltrow in Shallow Hal, you should try this film. Paltrow plays London publicist Helen, who effortlessly slides between parallel storylines that show what happens if she does or does not catch a train back to her apartment. This romantic drama film has themes of love, entanglements, deception, and trust. 

Groundhog Day (1993)

This is a classic and one everyone should watch. The storyline might sound a bit dull, but give it a chance, as it will surprise you. A narcissistic TV weatherman, along with his attractive but distant producer and mawkish cameraman, is sent to report on Groundhog Day in the small town of Punxsutawney. Each day, he finds himself repeating the same day over and over and over again. He must find a way to end this endless torture. 

Sleepless in Seattle (1993)

Sam is still grieving his wife Maggie’s death, so his eight-year-old son Jonah forces him to call a national radio talk show with the hopes of finding him a companion. Engaged Annie overhears the show and tracks Sam down, thinking he might be the one for her. Starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan (just like You’ve Got Mail), this perfect pair will melt your heart in this romantic drama. 

He’s Just Not That Into You (2009)

This film is about self-discovery, relationships, and finding true love. With a star-studded cast, it tells the stories of four men and five women in Baltimore struggling to keep their love lives intact. Each one experiences heartbreak and tries to deal with the complexities of relationships.

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