By C. J. De Mel, Jadetimes News
Synopsis
Oscar nominated director Richard Linklater brings a sunlit neo noir twist to the screen with "Hit Man," featuring Glen Powell as Gary Johnson, a straitlaced professor who moonlights as a fake hit man for the New Orleans Police Department. Gifted at adopting various personas to catch those attempting to hire a killer, Gary's life takes a morally dubious turn when he falls for Madison (Adria Arjona), one of his potential clients. As Madison becomes enamored with Gary's alter ego, the enigmatic Ron, their affair ignites a series of deceptions, escalating stakes, and complicated playacting.
Director: Richard Linklater
Producers: Jason Bateman, Mike Blizzard, Michael Costigan, Richard Linklater, Glen Powell
Screenwriters: Richard Linklater, Glen Powell, Skip Hollandsworth
Distributor: Netflix
Production Companies: Detour Pictures, Cinetic Media, AGC Studios, Barnstorm Productions, Aggregate Films, Monarch Media, Detour Filmproduction, Netflix, ShivHans Pictures
Rating: R (Some Violence, Sexual Content, Language Throughout)
Genre: Romance Comedy, Action, Crime, Mystery & Thriller
Original Language: English
Release Dates: Theaters: May 24, 2024 (Limited)
Streaming: June 7, 2024
Runtime: 1 hour 53 minutes
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Filming Locations
The entirety of "Hit Man" was filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana. The city’s rich cultural heritage, diverse architecture, and vibrant atmosphere provided a perfect backdrop for the movie. From university settings to local diners and pubs, the film captures the essence of New Orleans, adding an authentic feel to the narrative. The production utilized iconic locations such as the University of New Orleans, Pho Bang Restaurant, Ted’s Frostop Diner, Please U Restaurant, and Vaughan’s Lounge, integrating the city’s character into the storyline.
Fan Reactions
Audience reactions to "Hit Man" have been overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its seamless blend of three distinct genres. Richard Linklater's ability to explore hard truths rather than easy answers has resonated with viewers. Fans appreciate the film's quirky nature, characteristic of Linklater’s directorial style. Glen Powell’s performance has been particularly praised, with many considering it a standout element in the film. Despite some criticisms regarding the overall cast and perceived budgetary constraints, Powell’s portrayal of Gary Johnson has earned five star reviews for its depth and charm.
Performances
Glen Powell delivers an exceptional performance as Gary Johnson, bringing depth and charisma to the character. His ability to transition effortlessly between different personas adds a dynamic layer to the film. Adria Arjona, as Madison, complements Powell with her snark and sass, creating a compelling onscreen chemistry. While the supporting cast has been described as weak, Powell and Arjona’s performances elevate the film, making it a must watch.
"Hit Man" (2023) is a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and action, showcasing Richard Linklater's unique storytelling approach. The film's engaging narrative, combined with Glen Powell’s stellar performance, makes it a captivating watch. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New Orleans, "Hit Man" offers a fresh and entertaining cinematic experience. Whether you’re a fan of neo noir or romantic comedies, this film is sure to entertain and leave a lasting impression.