Houston, Texas – Renowned filmmaker Richard Linklater expressed his views on the current trend in Hollywood movies, stating that adult stories are considered “out of fashion” in the industry. Linklater, known for his acclaimed works like “School of Rock” and “Boyhood”, faced challenges getting traditional film studios interested in his latest project, “Hit Man”, despite receiving positive reactions when the film premiered last year.
“Hit Man” tells the story of a professor named Gary who starts moonlighting as a fake hitman for the city police department and falls for a woman who tries to enlist his services. The movie is inspired by the true story of Gary Johnson, a community professor who worked as a fake ‘assassin’ for the Houston police. Linklater, along with Glen Powell, who co-wrote the script, aimed to make the film about “passion” and explored themes of desire and sexuality.
In a time where Hollywood blockbusters like “Furiosa” and “The Fall Guy” have underperformed at the box office, Linklater advocates for the need for more diverse and engaging storytelling in films. He emphasizes the importance of exploring adult themes and relationships on screen, which he believes are lacking in mainstream cinema today.
Despite initial hesitations from studios, “Hit Man” has received positive reviews from critics, with praise for the chemistry between the lead actors, Glen Powell and Adria Arjona. The film is set to be released on Netflix on June 7, 2024, offering audiences a fresh take on romantic thriller comedies in a time when such narratives are less common in the industry.
Linklater and Powell’s dedication to creating a film that challenges the norms of Hollywood and explores the complexities of adult relationships shines through in “Hit Man”. As the industry evolves and audiences seek more diverse and engaging content, films like “Hit Man” serve as a reminder of the power of storytelling and the importance of pushing boundaries in cinema.