Love story on the edge of morality

RICHARD LINKLATER’S “Hit Man” presents a thrilling and twisted story full of romance, deception and moral ambiguity that leaves viewers wondering about the nature of good and evil.

The film stars Glen Powell as Gary, a psychology professor who works as an undercover investigator, and Adria Arjona as Madison, a woman embroiled in domestic conflict.

Their unusual love story is set against the backdrop of assassination plots and dangerous double lives, creating a narrative that challenges conventional morality.

Story of an unlikely love

Hit Man centers on the relationship between Gary and Madison. Gary, who is reluctantly forced into the role of a fake hitman, meets Madison when she tries to have her abusive husband killed.

The film deftly navigates the complexities of their developing relationship as Gary takes on the role of Ron in order to gain Madison’s trust. What begins as a professional intelligence operation quickly turns into a genuine emotional connection, with the lines between Gary’s true identity and his assumed identity blurring.

The chemistry between Powell and Arjona is palpable, and their performances are the basis for the film’s more outlandish twists. As Gary falls in love with Madison, he grapples with his moral compass, leading to a series of decisions that are as questionable as they are compelling.

Madison, on the other hand, is portrayed with a mix of vulnerability and strength, making her a sympathetic but unpredictable character. Their romance is disturbing but exciting, a testament to the film’s ability to balance comedy, a bit of action and drama.

Bad decisions

Hit Man assumes that life is not black and white, as even good people can make bad decisions. Initially reluctant to take part in the covert operations, Gary becomes increasingly adept at manipulating his victims, raising ethical questions about seduction and justice. His transformation from mild-mannered professor to cunning undercover agent is both fascinating and disturbing.

Madison’s journey is equally complex. Her initial desperation to escape an abusive relationship leads her to consider murder, a decision that sets off a chain of events with far-reaching consequences.

The film doesn’t shy away from showing the dark sides of its protagonists. Instead, it embraces their mistakes and questionable decisions and invites viewers to reflect on the shades of grey that define human behavior.

Suspicious but well-intentioned

Throughout its running time, Hit Man spins a narrative whose message can seem suspect, but it’s clear that the filmmakers may mean well. The film’s portrayal of law enforcement tactics, particularly the use of deception and psychological manipulation, raises important ethical questions.

But it’s precisely this ambiguity that makes the film so compelling. Linklater and Powell, who co-wrote the screenplay, infuse the story with enough humor and heart to keep audiences hooked, even as they question the characters’ motives and actions.

The film’s climax, a staged suicide and morally questionable resolution, is a fitting conclusion to a story that consistently defies easy categorization. As the narrative jumps forward several years to show Gary and Madison happily married with children, viewers are left to consider the true cost of their happiness.

Accept the ambiguity

Hit Man is a film that should be viewed with an open mind. It reminds us that the morals of life are often murky and that good people are capable of bad deeds when put under pressure.

Linklater’s direction, combined with strong performances from Powell and Arjona, ensure that the film is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. For those willing to get involved in the disturbing yet thrilling love story, Hit Man offers a unique cinematic experience that will resonate long after the credits roll.

Hit Man is streaming on Netflix.

Cast: Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, Retta, Sanjay Rao, Molly Bernard

Director: Richard Linklater

E-VALUE: 8

DRAMA: 8

PLOT: 7