Hit Man (2025): A Sharp, Romantic Reinvention of the Assassin Genre
Hit Man, a 2025 Netflix release directed by Richard Linklater, offers a clever and stylish twist on the assassin genre. Rather than focusing on gritty violence or shadowy intrigue, the film leans into comedy, romance, and philosophical reflection. Co-written by Linklater and lead actor Glen Powell, the movie is inspired by the true story of Gary Johnson, a Texas professor who posed as a fake hitman for police sting operations.
Glen Powell plays Gary Johnson, a soft-spoken college philosophy professor in New Orleans with a secret side job. At night, Gary works with the police, donning disguises to entrap individuals looking to hire a killer. His character slips into different identities—tough guy, foreign mercenary, smooth criminal—each more exaggerated than the last. But Gary is not an assassin; he is simply pretending to be one to expose others.
The story takes a turn when Gary meets Madison, played by Adria Arjona, a woman desperate to escape her abusive husband. Gary, under the alias “Ron,” is meant to trick her into confessing her intent—but instead, the two fall into a complicated and passionate relationship. As Gary continues to live this double life, his moral compass is tested, and he begins to question who he truly is.
What makes Hit Man stand out is its blend of genres. It’s part screwball romantic comedy, part noir-inspired thriller, and part philosophical character study. Linklater’s direction, known for his thoughtful and humanistic approach, ensures the film never becomes too heavy-handed. It explores themes of identity, authenticity, and moral ambiguity without losing its sense of humor.
Glen Powell shines in the lead role, delivering a charismatic and nuanced performance that balances wit, charm, and vulnerability. His chemistry with Arjona is electric and central to the film’s emotional core. Together, they navigate a relationship built on lies, danger, and unexpected tenderness.
Critics praised Hit Man for its originality and tight screenplay. Many highlighted Powell’s breakout performance and Linklater’s ability to subvert audience expectations. The film received high marks for its pacing, smart dialogue, and ability to blend emotional storytelling with entertaining genre elements.
Visually, the film embraces a clean, modern style. The city of New Orleans serves as a colorful and textured backdrop, adding character and atmosphere. The costume design plays a key role as well, emphasizing Gary’s shifting identities and the duality of his life.
Upon release, Hit Man performed strongly with both critics and viewers. It gained attention on streaming platforms and sparked conversations about ethics in law enforcement, the appeal of deception, and the blurred line between performance and truth.
In the end, Hit Man is not just a clever crime film—it’s a love story wrapped in disguise, a thoughtful reflection on who we pretend to be and why. With sharp writing, strong performances, and a surprising emotional depth, it marks one of 2025’s most unique and memorable cinematic offerings.
