Watch The Valet

The Valet, directed by Richard Wong, is a hilarious yet heartwarming 2022 rom-com that delves into our world's often conflicting perceptions of image, wealth, celebrity, and truth. Weaving comic hilarity with emotional significance, The Valet is an absolute must-watch film for anyone seeking lighthearted entertainment with a dose of insightful social commentary.

The Valet is an English-speaking remake of the hit 2006 French comedy of the same name by Francis Veber. The original film's worldwide appeal is well carried over to its American adaptation, which retains the charm and humor injected into the original script, while also catering to its contemporary audience.

The film stars Eugenio Derbez playing the role of Antonio, a good-hearted but humble valet who finds himself thrown unsuspectingly into the glamorous yet chaotic world of Hollywood's upper crust. Derbez, well-known for his charm and comedic timing, shines in this role and brings a distinct warmth and relatability to his character.

Contrary to Antonio's modest existence, Samara Weaving portrays the world-renowned supermodel Elena in the film. Elena is known for her awe-inspiring beauty, yet faces the hard-hitting truth of public life, constantly under the press's scrutiny. Weaving skillfully infuses vulnerability into her otherwise picture-perfect character, fostering a sense of authenticity that audiences will find quite compelling.

Max Greenfield joins the lead cast as Vincent, a wealthy businessman whose public image is key to his success. Greenfield's portrayal of Vincent perfectly encapsulates the character's flamboyance and narcissism, adding an extra layer of comedic relief.

The plot of The Valet pivots on a chance encounter when Antonio is photographed in the same frame with Elena. When the paparazzi mistake Antonio for Elena's secret lover, their harmless image propels a web of lies, leading to fits of laughter and unexpected dash of romance. The simple yet engaging premise allows the film to explore the superficial world of fame and the beyond-surface lives of those who live in its spotlight.

The film champions the cause of authenticity and integrity in a world consumed by public image. It critiques the superficiality of celebrity culture, but also underscores the fundamental human need for dignity, love, and respect. Ultimately, The Valet is more than just a comedy; it's a poignant exploration of the men and women who exist behind the gloss of star-studded Hollywood, offering its audience both humor and depth in equal measure.

The Valet is enhanced by its impressive supporting cast, featuring other notable actors who contribute to the film's comedic and heartfelt moments. Among them, veteran actor Betsy Brandt exhibits an excellent performance. From their individual performances to their intertwined character arcs, each addition to the ensemble helps to elevate the plot with zest and flair.

Under Richard Wong’s deft direction, The Valet maintains its lively pace throughout, ensuring that not a moment feels dull or unnecessary. Wong’s knack for comedic timing and his ability to elicit genuine performances from his actors make the film an engaging visual treat.

The screenplay, adapted by Rob Greenberg and Bob Fisher, is full of sharp one-liners and hilarious dialogue that will keep the audience thoroughly entertained. However, it's not just all laughs; the script is also peppered with moments of heartfelt emotion and profundity, making for a well-rounded cinematic experience.

The film’s technical aspects also deserve praise. Cinematography by Felipe Vara de Rey captures the contrasting facets of Los Angeles, from its glamorous red carpets to its quaint residential neighborhoods, all the while maintaining a vibrant visual palette that lends itself to the film's comedic yet heartwarming tone.

All in all, The Valet is a delightful comedy that seamlessly balances hilarity and heartfelt sentiment, delivering a refreshing cinematic experience. Featuring a strong ensemble cast, a charming storyline, and an insightful social commentary, the film is a must-see for anyone who enjoys buoyant rom-coms with an edge of realism. The Valet promises a lot of laughter, a bit of uncontrollable smiling, and maybe even a dusting of tears. So, sit back, relax and let yourself be swept away into Antonio's rather hilarious plight.

The Valet is a 2022 comedy. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.7 and a MetaScore of 62.