Netflix’s Hit Man is an unquestionable slam dunk—further proof that action romantic comedies are back with full force. It’s the kind of film that’ll likely be on rotation for many people, especially those who appreciate this distinct genre of marriage we’ve been missing out on. Directed by Richard Linklater (who’s also the co-screenwriter with star Glen Powell), the film consistently keeps viewers at the edge of their seats while simultaneously comforting our experience with heart and humor. Romance aficionados can breathe with ease in knowing that there’s a happy ending—a big win where the genre is concerned.
Bits of the premise are based on the true story of real-life secret agent Gary Johnson, but the film takes liberties in telling his story while at the same time casting an intricate light on a tenderness that we don’t often see in media like this. Like with The Fall Guy, the films allow their heroes to be soft and full of heart, even when they’re tasked with arcane and horrible tasks. There’s a levity and joy that comes from watching characters like this on our screens, and there’s a real treat in seeing actors fully embrace what these characters stand for. Powell’s range is generally incredible, but he’s on a whole new level in Netflix’s Hit Man, showing off his chops left and right so seamlessly that it’s impeccable to witness.
Further, the film wouldn’t work without Adria Arjona and everything she brings to the table as Madison Masters. The chemistry with Powell is palpable, but more than anything, Arjona makes us care deeply about her character, and she ensures that we understand her through everything. There’s a deliberate play-by-play of scenarios that occurs throughout the film’s third act, cementing their dynamic into a place worthy of recognition, which then makes their romance that much more intriguing. They get to be soft together, playful, sexy, and then subsequently fierce and powerful? Sign us up, once, twice—or three times. We’ll take anything Netflix’s Hit Man wants to give us.
The film also stars the incredible Retta, Austin Amelio, Sanjay Rao, and more, bringing a whole lot of riveting humor to the moments of undercover work. It’s a story about teamwork, but more than anything, it’s a story about what lies underneath all the layers of the truth people conceal. It’s fun and hilarious, but it’s not without depth, and the differences we see in characterizations bring forth layers of humanity through a classroom setting that’s especially interesting to dissect.
Netflix’s Hit Man is a staggering success in more ways than one, driving summer blockbusters home once again. It’s a slight shame the film premieres on Netflix globally instead of in theaters, but it’s a success still, especially with how much traction it’ll gain from people who don’t feel comfortable going to the movies. It’s tactful, cleverly written, intricately balanced with heart and humor, and a solid story that’s easily memorable.
While some moviegoers will argue that the film has predictable beats that don’t necessarily make it unique, I’ll counter that it’s this very familiarity that makes it a breath of fresh air. It’s not so much about shocking the audience, but it’s about planting seeds and watching them grow. Formulas work when the execution is careful enough to tell character-driven stories, and that’s exactly the kind of meaty work we get here.
Hit Man is playing in select theaters and premieres on Netflix on June 7.
First Featured Image | Official Poster Credit: ©Netflix