Hit Man
★★★ 1/2
As a dedicated Richard Linklater fan, I approached Hit Man with eager anticipation. Linklater's films, particularly Bernie, have long held a special place in my heart. While Hit Man shares some similarities with Bernie, it also diverges in ways that are both intriguing and challenging.
Hit Man defies easy categorization. At its core, it's a dark comedy, but it frequently veers into dramatic territory. This tonal shift can be jarring, creating a sense of unevenness throughout the film. The pacing, too, is a bit sluggish at the outset. However, once the story gains momentum around the midpoint, it becomes increasingly engaging.
A significant part of my investment in the film came from the characters and their development. Linklater's collaboration with Glen Powell is noteworthy; Powell's charisma and screen presence shine through. However, one aspect of his character pulled me out of the narrative: the premise that Gary Johnson (Powell), a strikingly handsome actor with a quintessential movie star aura, could seamlessly play a character that is supposed to blend into a crowd. This incongruity was a constant distraction, despite Powell's strong performance and undeniable chemistry with his co-star, Adria Arjona. The dynamic between Powell and Arjona is a highlight, their interactions becoming more compelling as the plot progresses. Their on-screen chemistry is palpable, adding depth and authenticity to their relationship.
Hit Man is a mixed bag. It offers moments of genuine surprise and delivers on some of the expectations set by Linklater's previous works. However, it might leave some viewers wanting more—whether that's additional humor or deeper drama. It's a solid entry in Linklater's filmography but falls short of his best work. Despite its flaws, it demonstrates the potential of the Linklater-Powell partnership. I look forward to seeing more collaborations between them, as their combined talents could lead to many captivating stories in the future.
