The Story Behind The Hitch Scene Will Smith Had To Be ‘Begged’ To Film: ‘I’m Trying To Save The Sequence’

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In various roles, Will Smith has delivered unforgettable performances, such as battling aliens in the “Men in Black” series, winning an Oscar for his portrayal of Venus and Serena Williams’ father in “King Richard,” and depicting a struggling salesman in “The Pursuit of Happyness.” However, it’s crucial not to overlook his role as a “date doctor” in the 2005 box office hit, “Hitch.” As this romantic comedy celebrates its 20th anniversary, there’s an intriguing tale linked to one scene from the film that Smith had to be persuaded to participate in.

The movie “Hitch” stands out as a riotously funny film brimming with side-splitting moments. Memorable instances include when Hitch instructs his client Albert on the art of kissing, and when Albert demonstrates his less-than-graceful dance steps. However, one scene that particularly resonated in the New York-set romantic comedy was when Hitch embarks on his first date with Sara Melas to Ellis Island, only for things to take a turn for the worse. Incredibly, director Andy Tennant disclosed in an interview with Business Insider that Will Smith was persuaded to film this emblematic scene, and here’s why:

In a collaboration with my writing partner Rick Parks, we crafted the Ellis Island scene as friends of mine from New York had never visited this historic site. We incorporated the date, Jet Ski ride, and the entire setting. At first, Will was reluctant due to his belief that Black people didn’t arrive through Ellis Island. I persisted in inviting him to Ellis Island so I could propose the idea. It was a gathering of myself, Will, some production team members, and Will’s producing partner, James Lassiter, who is also his close friend. The scene was an effort on my part to salvage that particular sequence. Interestingly, we later discovered that James’ family had actually passed through Ellis Island, which is why the scene made it into the film.

It seems that making the movie Hitch provided Will Smith with some insights into history. Contrary to popular belief, many Black Americans did not go through Ellis Island during their immigration in the 20th century. However, this assumption may be a historical oversight if James Lassiter’s family is an exception and actually came through Ellis Island.

It’s possible to contend that arranging a first date at Ellis Island was an innovative concept for Hitch, aiming to provide Sara with a unique, emotional, and personal experience tied to her family history. However, Andy Tennant confesses that the scene initially intended as a heartwarming moment ended up being transformed into the humorous debacle portrayed in the final version of the film.

Originally, Rick and I envisioned the scene as a romantic moment. However, during our discussion about it, the script doctor Susannah Grant suggested a turn for the worse. This sparked an imaginative brainstorming session that led to ideas such as Hitch kicking Sara in the head and referencing the Butcher of Cádiz. These ideas were born from a lively lunch conversation we had. Another concern was Will’s inability to swim, so there were reservations about having him in the water. But Will was insistent, saying he’d wear a life vest.

It’s quite clever that Hitch and Sara’s initial date turned out disastrously, as the self-proclaimed “date doctor” apparently believed he had enough charm to win over women. Knocking Sara unconscious by accidentally kicking her off a jet ski, followed by confronting “The Butcher of Cádiz,” added an unexpected twist that made their encounter on Ellis Island all the more memorable, instead of just another run-of-the-mill romantic date.

Among various captivating moments in the Ellis Island scene, what resonated most with me was when Eva Mendes’ character erupted in anger and tears upon learning her grandfather, pointed out among the immigrants who passed through, was actually a murderer, as hinted by Hitch. Conversely, Andy Tennant frequently revisits his favorite part – the one he’s watched countless times: this emotional revelation.

What I find most intriguing about that sequence is it appears as if Eva momentarily suspends herself in mid-flight after being kicked by Will, before she would normally hit the water. I’ve seen this scene repeated countless times, and I still can’t fathom how she managed to halt her descent before splashing into the water.

Eva Mendes demonstrated impeccable comedic delivery in that particular scene, with her momentary suspension adding to the portrayal of her character’s sudden and surprising ejection from the jet ski by Hitch. One can’t help but wonder if this pause was scripted intentionally. It’s fortunate that life vests were present, as they undoubtedly played a crucial role in ensuring her safety.

It’s hard to believe it’s been 20 years since Hitch tickets were selling fast on Valentine’s Day mid-week. Talk about feeling old here! Will Smith made sure to commemorate the occasion on his Instagram post filled with your favorite scenes from the movie, behind-the-scenes videos and photos from the premiere:

A post shared by Will Smith (@willsmith)

A photo posted by on

It’s fortunate that the creative team for the movie “Hitch” persuaded Will Smith strongly enough to film the Ellis Island scene, or we would have missed out on one of the film’s funniest moments. Since Andy Tennant has announced that the award-winning actor is working on a sequel, I’m eager to see what other romantic escapades the charming consultant will embark upon. For now, you can catch “Hitch” with your Peacock membership.

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2025-02-13 02:09