Hit Man: A Playful and Thought-Provoking Comedy from Richard Linklater
Richard Linklater’s Hit Man is a clever and sexy comedy starring rising star Glen Powell. While very original, it feels designed for box office success but may struggle on Netflix due to its emphasis on shared big screen experience.
The film challenges expectations by denying the existence of hit men, setting up a metatextual exploration of myth and identity. Powell delivers an impressive performance in multiple iterations of his hit-man act, while his chemistry with Adria Arjona adds excitement and romance.
Hit Man delves into the nature of identity, questioning whether we can become who we wish to be and the role of our inner selves. Linklater and Powell employ clever mise-en-scène to engage the audience in unexpected ways, creating a tense atmosphere.
The film’s strengths lie in its shared theatrical experience, where the audience is collectively immersed in the projected images and questions our perception of reality.
Richard Linklater’s Return to Form
Hit Man marks a return to form for Linklater, who has directed critically acclaimed films such as Dazed and Confused, School of Rock, and Boyhood. The film showcases his signature wit and playful style, while also exploring deeper themes of identity and reality.
Glen Powell’s Star-Making Performance
Powell delivers a tour-de-force performance as Gary, a philosophy teacher who moonlights as a fake hit man. He brings both physicality and charisma to the role, showcasing his impressive range as an actor.
Clever Use of Mise-en-Scène
Linklater and Powell use clever mise-en-scène to engage the audience in unexpected ways. They play with focus, framing, and lighting to create a sense of tension and suspense, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Identity
Beyond its comedic elements, Hit Man explores deeper themes of identity and reality. The film asks questions about who we are, who we want to be, and how our perceptions shape our experiences.
A Film Best Experienced in Theaters
While Hit Man is sure to entertain on Netflix, it is a film that is best experienced in theaters. The shared experience of laughter, suspense, and thought-provoking discussion is essential to fully appreciate its impact.
