Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona
Genre: Action, Comedy
Director: Richard Linklater
In Cinemas: 24th May 2024
Streaming On Netflix: 7th June 2024
In Richard Linklater’s latest film, “Hit Man,” inspired by a remarkable true story, the audience is whisked into the realm of Gary Johnson, a seemingly ordinary philosophy professor with an extraordinary secret life. As portrayed by Glen Powell, Gary moonlights as Ron, a sophisticated and intimidating fake hitman working with the local police to set up criminal stings. Linklater’s masterful touch elevates what could have been a shallow, forgettable romp in the hands of a lesser director.
Gary’s encounters with desperate clients in seedy diners, where he concocts elaborate lies about his hitman persona, are both comical and reveal human folly. However, when he meets Madison (played by Adria Arjona), a woman seeking to dispose of her husband, their interaction takes an unexpected turn.
Gary, still predominantly in character as Ron, is drawn to Madison and navigates a delicate dance between truth and deception. As the stakes escalate, Linklater delves into the existential complexities of identity and performance. Gary’s dual existence blurs the lines between reality and fiction, leading to a precarious balancing act between maintaining his relationship with Madison and evading the scrutiny of law enforcement.
The resulting chaos is a blend of slapstick humour and psychological introspection, akin to a spy caper filtered through the lens of a philosophy major. Linklater’s penchant for blending high-minded projects with lighthearted diversions is evident in “Hit Man.” While some may prefer his more introspective works like “Boyhood” and “Before Sunrise,” there’s an undeniable charm in the playful energy of films like “Hit Man.”
Regardless of preference, each film bears Linklater’s unmistakable signature, offering audiences a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of his directorial prowess. In the end, “Hit Man” serves as a reminder of the duality inherent in human nature and the transformative power of performance.
Whether one gravitates towards Gary’s introspective musings or Ron’s carefree antics, Linklater’s film is a testament to the enduring allure of storytelling and the endless possibilities of expression in cinema.
Overall: 8/10
REVIEWED AS PART OF THE 80th VENICE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
Movie Reviewer
