Entertainment Blog #247 | Hit Man [2023] - He's Not a Killer but He Can Pretend...

""Hit Man" expertly creates a story that speaks to the daily struggle of discovering one's true self in the midst of societal expectations. Gary Johnson, the film's main character and part-time New Orleans Police Department employee, finds himself assuming various identities as an undercover hitman. His journey reflects the universal search for originality in a world that frequently expects obedience and appearances. The film's dark comedic undertones highlight the insanity and complexity of human behavior, creating a compelling narrative that mirrors our own experiences juggling personal and professional responsibilities."

Hit Man is a 2023 American romantic black comedy film produced and directed by Richard Linklater, who co-wrote the screenplay with Glen Powell. It is based on the 2001 Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth. The film stars Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, and Retta. It premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival on September 5, 2023. Later, it made its way to select theaters in the United States on May 24, 2024, before debuting on Netflix on June 7.

"Hit Man" centers on Gary Johnson, a college professor and tech guy who helps in undercover contracts for the New Orleans Police Department, posing as a reliable hitman. When their undercover hitman, Jasper was dismissed from work for misconduct, Gary was put into the position by surprise.

Gary didn't know what to do but he had to go for real work, switching his career within a few minutes. No one, even himself didn't know that the suitable personality was hidden inside him. From the first mission he went to execute, he showed his colors and capture a number of possible murderers-to-come and bought them to justice.

Later, he was passionate for the job. He made an identity for his undercover. Not just one but a few. It's like he is doing some kind of a costume play with these criminals. He was doing well until one day, on the mission, a woman named Maddy claimed to be having a toxic relationship with her husband, and she wanted to hire Gary to kill him.

In other missions, Ron, the undercover Gary, wraps up the things quickly and lets the police handle the rest. But here, Maddy was different. She is already in trouble, and Ron didn't want to mess her life no more than this. So he told Maddy to think about it and call him about her decision.

Later, she decided not to kill her husband but to divorce him. And she wanted to thank Ron for rescuing her from doing a big mistake. They meet again and the small talks goes further. Maddy knows Ron as a contract killer but he is really not. So what will happen between them? Will Gary's undercover life ricochet on Maddy? It's up to you to find out.

What distinguishes "Hit Man" from other films in the genre is its different blend of romantic black comedy and philosophical undertone. While many films focus on the action-packed life of an undercover agent, "Hit Man" delves deeper into the protagonist's psychological and emotional issues. The film's exploration of identity and genuineness, combined with its dark humor and romantic subplot, make for a refreshing and thought-provoking viewing experience.

"Hit Man" has garnered widespread acclaim from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts a 97% approval rating, with an average score of 8.2/10. Critics have praised the film for its clever narrative and outstanding performances, particularly by Glen Powell. Washington Post described it as "a blast of pure pleasure," while The New York Times lauded it as "romantic, sexy, hilarious, and satisfying." The film's philosophical musings on identity were also highlighted. Despite mixed reviews from a few critics, the general consensus is that "Hit Man" is a standout entry in Richard Linklater's filmography.

"Hit Man" wasn't there at the theatres for that long. The film's distribution deal with Netflix, worth $20 million, further underscored its commercial potential. As it continues to attract audiences both in theaters and on streaming platforms, "Hit Man" stands out as a compelling and entertaining film that skillfully blends humor, romance, and existential contemplation. In conclusion, "Hit Man" is a must-watch for those who appreciate a movie that offers more than just surface-level thrills, delivering a narrative rich in character development and thematic depth.