Hit Man stands out as a refreshingly clever and charming romantic comedy, a genre we see all too infrequently these days. Glen Powell, already celebrated for his role in Netflix’s beloved rom-com Set It Up, brings an impressive level of charisma to his performance in this latest film. Powell’s portrayal as a hit man is arguably his finest work yet, capturing the enigmatic allure of the character while navigating a narrative of crime, deceit, romance, and philosophical exploration.
Following a well-received run through film festivals and a brief theatrical release, Hit Man has firmly established itself as one of Netflix’s standout films of 2024.
Based on Skip Hollandsworth’s 2001 Texas Monthly article, the film features Powell as Gary Johnson, a Houston college professor who balances teaching philosophy with a part-time tech-support job for the local police. When a disruptive officer named Jasper (Austin Amelio from The Walking Dead) is suspended, Gary is recruited to temporarily pose as a hit man. His role involves coaxing potential criminals into revealing their plans to facilitate their arrest.
What starts as a successful ruse quickly captivates Gary, who is intrigued by the idea of adopting different personas—a subject close to his academic interests. He approaches each role with elaborate costumes, wigs, and accents to meet his clients’ expectations and maintain his cover.
However, things shift when he encounters Maddy Masters (Adria Arjona of Good Omens), who seeks his services to deal with her abusive husband. Gary finds himself questioning whether he prefers his new identity as the suave hitman, Ron, over his real self. This raises deeper questions about identity, self-perception, and whether our personalities are merely performances.
Hit Man : Combining Screwball Comedy with Deep Questions of Identity
Hit Man delves into these intriguing themes while weaving in elements of academic theory, making it a rich experience for viewers interested in the philosophy of self. Richard Linklater directs with a light touch, blending thoughtful ethical inquiries with humor and avoiding a condescending tone despite the film’s comedic nature. The film cleverly juxtaposes screwball comedy’s frenetic energy with film noir’s dark intrigue, creating a captivating and entertaining genre fusion.
For those yet to be convinced of Glen Powell’s star power, Hit Man should be a turning point. Powell delivers a standout performance, infusing his character with Southern charm and impressive physical comedy. His portrayal, which includes an amusingly nerdy look, is both engaging and highly effective.
Much like his previous collaboration with Linklater in Everybody Wants Some!!, this Netflix film is both refreshing and nostalgic, balancing complexity with accessibility. It is a delightful romantic comedy that celebrates living fully and finding someone who complements your unique quirks.