Richard Linklater, the acclaimed director known for his unique storytelling and character-driven narratives, has once again delivered a cinematic gem with his latest film, “Hit Man.” This comedy-thriller, co-written with actor Glen Powell, is a delightful blend of humor, romance, and suspense, showcasing Linklater’s knack for creating engaging and multifaceted characters.
“Hit Man” introduces us to Gary Johnson, played by Glen Powell, a seemingly ordinary psychology teacher at a New Orleans high school. Gary’s life is as unremarkable as his name suggests, filled with mundane routines and the company of his two cats, Id and Ego. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when he assists the local police with their surveillance equipment and ends up taking on the role of an undercover assassin.
The film, which bills itself as a “somewhat true story,” is loosely based on a Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth. It imagines a more detailed inner life for Gary, who, despite his unassuming nature, becomes an unlikely hitman. The story spirals into a hilarious and multilayered narrative about identity, passion, and the absurd lengths people go to for love and lust.
Powell’s performance as Gary is nothing short of spectacular. Initially, it might seem that Powell, with his model-like looks, is overqualified for the role of a self-effacing everyman. However, as the film progresses, it becomes clear that the role requires a unique blend of comedic and dramatic skills, which Powell delivers with aplomb. His portrayal of Gary is both charming and ridiculous, making him a perfect fit for the character.
Gary’s journey from a tech-savvy teacher to a commanding undercover hitman is both thrilling and comedic. He adopts numerous aliases, each with distinct costumes and backstories, tailored to the clients he meets. This transformation is akin to crafting a dating profile, turning each meeting into a unique and absurd seduction. The film takes a comedic high-wire act approach, with scenes that are simultaneously hilarious and tightly wound, earning regular applause breaks during its Venice Film Festival screening.
The chemistry between Powell and Adria Arjona, who plays Madison, a troubled client, is electric. Their dynamic is both flirtatious and steamy, adding a layer of romantic tension to the film. As Gary, under the guise of his suave hitman persona Ron, begins an affair with Madison, the lines between his real and fake identities blur, leading to a labyrinth of splendidly awkward situations and escalating possibilities.
Linklater’s direction is masterful, maintaining a focus on performance above all else. He substitutes quips and metatextual observations for silent reaction shots that enhance the story’s surreality. The film’s comedic and dramatic substance lies in the carefully constructed character of Ron, the only one of Gary’s personas who isn’t a one-off. As a psychology teacher, Gary’s lectures about identity and morality conveniently inform the story, reflecting his shifting character.
“Hit Man” is as intense as it is funny. Gary’s role as an undercover hitman raises ethical questions, especially when he is called upon as a witness in the cases he has helped entrap. The film explores the idea that hitmen-for-hire are largely a pop culture invention, and how passions and frustrations can lead even regular people down dark paths. This theme applies equally to Gary and Madison’s dynamic, which becomes a form of romantic entrapment.
The film’s structure ensures that each comedic payoff of Gary meeting a new client sets up increasing oddities down the line. By the time Gary meets Madison, the audience is fully invested in his fantasy, eager to see how he navigates his double life. The film rides a fine line between sincerity and irony, seldom detaching from Gary and Madison but always hinting at the flimsy nature of Gary’s constructed reality.
Linklater’s “Hit Man” is a perfect crowd-pleaser, with Powell delivering a star-making performance. The film’s blend of comedy, romance, and suspense, along with its exploration of identity and morality, makes it a standout in Linklater’s filmography. “Hit Man” is currently in select theaters and will premiere on Netflix on June 7. Don’t miss the chance to see this killer comedy on the big screen.
