"Do you think I'm just out there killing people for NO money?"
Director Richard Linklater frequently casts some known actors in roles he believes they can take on with emotional depth. We've seen this in the past with Matthew McConaughey, Jack Black, Julie Delpy, and Ethan Hawke, to name a few. The latter two have accompanied Linklater in the writer's room, collaborating on the screenplays for "Before Sunset" and "Before Midnight," which Delpy and Hawke famously co-starred in. Now, it seems the "Boyhood" helmer has found his newest muse in Glen Powell as the two Texans have written a provocative, funny film together in which Powell stars.
"Hit Man" stars Glen Powell ("Top Gun: Maverick") as Gary Johnson, a boring college professor with a side hustle assisting the New Orleans Police Department. Very loosely based on actual events that Skip Hollandsworth wrote about for Texas Monthly, Gary is mistaken for an actual hit man during a sting operation. Gary likes the thrill this case of mistaken identity gives him, and he runs with it…full throttle. Soon, Gary dons a multitude of disguises and personalities as he embraces the undercover lifestyle, aiding detectives in catching criminals who would hire a hit man to do their dirty work.
Gary's hijinks catch up to him when he comes across the gorgeous Madison (Adria Arjona), a woman fearing for her life and wants to hire Gary to kill her supposedly abusive husband. Falling under Madison's spell, Gary goes against his instincts to turn her into the police and decides to help her instead. Yes, Gary needs to continue his undercover act for an extended period, creating a suave, sophisticated, and dangerous persona that is unlike Gary in every single way.
Of course, the act can't last forever, especially considering Madison is hellbent on making sure her husband is killed at the hands of Gary's "expertise." Gary's lies catch up with him at some very inopportune moments, as do Madison's. We know this story might not end well, but it's a journey to get to the hilarious and worthwhile ending.
"Hit Man" is a unique gem in Linklater's filmography. It's a blend of comedy and seduction rarely seen on the big screen, making it a must-watch for any movie enthusiast. The film's sequences push the boundaries of normalcy, and the more people you watch it with, the more you'll appreciate the brilliance of Gary's undercover antics.
Co-written by Linklater and Powell, this film is an outstanding showcase for Powell's talents as a leading man and endless charmer. Powell's Gary wears so many costumes, wigs, and personalities that it's difficult to keep track of how many characters the Texas-native plays in this movie, a testament to the work both the director and star put into a performance of note.
The on-screen chemistry between Glen Powell and Adria Arjona is palpable, adding a layer of romantic tension to the film. This proves that "Hit Man" is not just a comedy but a romantic thriller that keeps the magic alive. It's a hidden gem on Netflix that's sure to bring laughter and passion without compromising its characters.
Ticket Rating: 🎟🎟🎟🎟
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