Review of Hit Man (2024)

Review of Hit Man (2024): A Lighthearted Take on a Dark Premise

Richard Linklater, known for crafting profound stories from everyday moments, ventures into crime comedy with Hit Man. Based loosely on true events, the film explores the dual life of Gary Johnson, a psychology professor posing as a hitman for the police. Starring Glen Powell in the lead role, alongside Adria Arjona, Hit Man delivers a quirky, comedic tale that opts for charm over suspense.

At the heart of the story is Glen Powell’s portrayal of Gary, a mild-mannered professor who moonlights as a fake contract killer to help law enforcement entrap those seeking to commit murder. Powell’s natural charisma shines, making Gary both relatable and entertaining, even when the story veers into improbable territory. His early encounters with would-be criminals—awkward restaurant meetings where he attempts to sound like a hardened killer—are both amusing and farcical.

The plot takes a pivotal turn when Gary meets Madison (played by Adria Arjona), a woman desperate to escape her abusive husband. Madison’s vulnerability contrasts with her boldness as she seeks a lethal solution to her problem. Arjona’s performance is compelling, adding depth to a character who could have easily been reduced to a trope. Instead of taking her payment, Gary suggests divorce as an alternative, a decision that sets off a cascade of comedic and ethical complications. The duo’s on-screen chemistry becomes the film’s highlight as their relationship deepens into a morally ambiguous romance.

Rounding out the cast are Austin Amelio, Retta, and Molly Bernard, who contribute to the film’s comedic tone. Their roles, while secondary, add layers of humor and context to Gary’s double life. The supporting cast effectively complements Powell’s lead, ensuring the film remains engaging even as the plot grows increasingly whimsical.

While the film’s premise suggests potential for a gritty neo-noir thriller akin to Body Heat or Blood Simple, Linklater opts for comedy, sacrificing tension for lightheartedness. The choice to focus on humor and romance results in a narrative that feels more like a playful caper than a hard-hitting drama. The farcical climax, though entertaining, underscores the film’s lack of dramatic weight.

The performances, particularly from Powell and Arjona, keep the film afloat, and the witty screenplay ensures consistent laughs. However, the plot’s predictability and lack of emotional stakes leave it feeling insubstantial. Hit Man entertains in the moment but misses the opportunity to explore its darker, more dramatic potential.

Rating: 3/5
Hit Man is a charming and comedic romp elevated by strong performances but hindered by its reluctance to embrace the grit and tension of its premise. Glen Powell and Adria Arjona’s chemistry shines, making it an enjoyable, if fleeting, experience.