I watched Hit Man and I liked it. 3.5/5
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Richard Linklater’s “Hit Man,” a film that cheekily blends action, comedy, and crime, is a delightful romp that knows how to have fun with its premise. Released in 2023, this movie stars Glen Powell, who also co-wrote the screenplay, as Gary Johnson—a mild-mannered psychology professor turned fake hitman for the New Orleans Police Department. With a storyline as wild as its title suggests, “Hit Man” delivers an amusing and engaging experience, earning a respectable 3.5 out of 5 stars.
At its core, “Hit Man” is an entertaining exploration of identity and deception. Gary, whose day job involves teaching psychology, moonlights as a stand-in hitman, helping the police catch those seeking to hire assassins. His journey into this double life begins when he reluctantly takes on a sting operation to help a woman escape from her abusive husband. The role requires him to channel various personas, each more outrageous than the last, showcasing Powell’s versatility and knack for comedy.
Powell’s performance is a highlight of the film. He effortlessly shifts between Gary’s natural demeanor and the array of characters he adopts as a pretend hitman. Each persona is distinct and colorful, from a suave, cold-blooded killer to a bumbling novice unsure of his footing. Powell’s comedic timing and charisma keep the audience engaged, and his chemistry with the rest of the cast, particularly with the female lead played by Adria Arjona, adds an extra layer of charm to the film.
The screenplay, co-written by Powell and Linklater, is sharp and witty, filled with clever dialogues and situational humor that play off the absurdity of the plot. The film pokes fun at the tropes of the crime and action genres, subverting expectations at every turn. The situations Gary finds himself in range from hilariously awkward to genuinely tense, keeping viewers on their toes and entertained throughout.
Visually, “Hit Man” is polished and vibrant, with a style that complements its lighthearted tone. The cinematography captures the essence of New Orleans, adding an authentic and lively backdrop to the story. The film’s pacing is brisk, ensuring there’s never a dull moment as Gary navigates his bizarre side job and the moral quandaries it presents.
However, while “Hit Man” is undoubtedly fun and engaging, it doesn’t delve too deeply into its more serious themes. The exploration of identity, deception, and the ethics of Gary’s role as a pretend hitman are touched upon but not fully explored. The film opts for a more surface-level treatment of these issues, focusing instead on the humor and action, which may leave some viewers craving more depth.
Additionally, the movie occasionally leans a bit too heavily on clichés, particularly in its portrayal of the criminal underworld and the police force. While this adds to the comedic effect, it sometimes feels like the film is playing it safe, avoiding more innovative or challenging storytelling choices. I also felt like the ending was a huge determinate to the overall story.
Despite these shortcomings, “Hit Man” succeeds in what it sets out to do: provide a fun, entertaining ride with plenty of laughs and engaging performances. It’s a movie that doesn’t take itself too seriously, embracing its quirky premise and running with it. The result is a film that is both a playful homage to the crime genre and a showcase for Glen Powell’s talents as an actor and writer.
In conclusion, “Hit Man” is a delightful and amusing film that delivers on its promise of fun. With its witty screenplay, charismatic lead, and a plot full of twists and turns, it’s an enjoyable watch for those looking for a lighthearted escape. While it may not offer profound insights or groundbreaking storytelling, it more than makes up for it with its charm and humor. For a good time at the movies, “Hit Man” is well worth the watch.