This is a modern version of the old story " The Devil and Daniel Webster". In brief, Jabez Stone is a struggling writer ( instead of farmer ) and the devil comes disguised as a crafty, ruthless female, but the basic elements are all there----in addition to some new ones that depict, quite compellingly, how making a deal with the devil undermined his conscience and turned him into a person he never wanted to be.

Just as in the original story, Daniel Webster takes his case, at enormous risk, in order to redeem Jabez Stone's soul. Minor details have been changed, but they really serve to enhance the story, so the plot is a real winner.

It does not come from a big studio, unfortunately, but the performances are excellent and totally befitting of a more expensive movie.

The allure of temptation and the unexpected consequences of self-serving priorities are on full display here, and make a vivid, enduring impression.

Alec b does not know how to act, all his movies are based on the same stupid ignoramus.
Alec doesn't act, unfortunately he is not expected to, all he does is be himself, which of course is what makes the movies he is in terrible.

I'm not sure why this movie has a high rating. It has one of the worst soundtracks / background music I've ever heard. Jennifer Love Hewitt is entirely unconvincing as the devil, and her wardrobe and hair are atrocious throughout. Alec Baldwin's character (who I love as an actor) progresses from whiny, annoying, detestable, and finally to somewhat pitiable. Anthony Hopkins is amazing, as always, but his late in the game role as a benevolent judge / God character is not believable, and just kind of stupid...

I have always liked the short story and this is a sweet version of " The Devil and Daniel Webster". Definitely worth the price.

Movie is very entertaining and actor's performance is excellent.

The film starts out by capturing your attention. It's a wonderful movie. Baldwin is writing an amusing book . He meets his writer friends , who are all trying to make it as authors,at a restaurant. The story is very good. You have an angry devil, Jennifer Love Hewett, who needs to eat something. Perhaps this is why she is so angry. The ending is a little slow. In fact it goes on way too long.

Nice mix of characters. Hidden dvd title and choke full of celebrities.

Despite the well-worn premise of the story, Shortcut to Happiness is a fresh, interesting look at an old dilemma. The scenes are well laid out, the acting all around is superb, the tension palpable. Most importantly, the message delivered is clear. Well worth watching.