Glen Powell's Breakout Role in Richard Linklater’s "Hit Man" | True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Hit Man’

Glen Powell's Breakout Role in Richard Linklater’s "Hit Man" | True Story Behind Netflix’s ‘Hit Man’

The True Story Behind Netflix's ‘Hit Man’ and Gary Johnson

Netflix’s Hit Manis a romantic action comedy hitman linklater netflix that has captivated viewers with its intriguing storyline. Starring Glen Powell as Gary Johnson, the movie follows a psychology professor who discovers his knack for posing as a fake hitman, helping the local police entrap criminals. But is Hit Man based on a true story? Let's explore the real-life inspiration behind this fascinating character.

Gary Johnson: The Real Fake Hitman

Yes, Hit Man on Netflix is loosely based on the true story of Gary Johnson, a college professor who worked undercover for the Houston police in the late 1980s and 1990s. Richard Linklater, the film's director, discovered Johnson's story in a 2001 Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth. The story detailed Johnson's career as an investigator who posed as a contract killer, leading to over sixty arrests.

How Gary Johnson Became a Fake Hitman

Johnson moved to Houston in 1981 with plans to join the University of Houston’s doctoral program in psychology. When he wasn’t accepted, he took a job as an investigator for the district attorney’s office. His unique career began in 1989 when a lab tech named Kathy Scott sought to hire a hitman to kill her husband. The police turned to Johnson, who successfully posed as a contract killer, capturing evidence against would-be clients.

Johnson was known for his ability to adopt various personas, convincing individuals from all walks of life that he was a legitimate hitman. His undercover work required him to get suspects to explicitly state their intention to have someone killed and pay him for the job, all while being recorded.

Differences Between the Film and Reality

While Netflix’s Hit Man takes inspiration from Johnson's life, it incorporates several fictional elements. For example, the film exaggerates the extent of Johnson’s disguises and introduces a romantic subplot that did not happen in real life. The real Gary Johnson did assist an abuse victim, but there’s no evidence of a romantic relationship between them.

Johnson's personal life was complex. Despite his success in undercover operations, he struggled with relationships, having been married three times. His second wife described him as a loner who could convincingly turn on a different personality to perform his undercover duties.

Gary Johnson's Legacy

who is the real gary johnson from hit man?

Gary Johnson passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most skilled undercover operatives in Houston’s history. His story, now immortalized in Hit Man on Netflix, continues to intrigue audiences with its blend of reality and fiction.

Hit Man is not just a film about deception and entrapment; it’s a tale of identity, passion, and the complexities of leading a double life. Whether you're watching for the thrilling plot or the romantic twists, the true story behind the film adds an extra layer of intrigue to this Netflix hit.

Overview of "Hit Man

Richard Linklater’s "Hit Man" features Glen Powell as philosophy lecturer Gary Johnson. In an early scene, Johnson challenges his University of New Orleans class to ponder their true identities. This foreshadows his upcoming transformation. The film is based on the real-life story of Johnson, who worked with the New Orleans Police Department as a fake hit man to catch criminals during sting operations.

Character Transformation

Gary Johnson, an ordinary man with an unremarkable appearance, becomes an effective undercover hit man. He steps into the role when the usual officer is suspended. Despite his initial anxiety, Gary seamlessly transforms into a convincing assassin during his first mission. This transformation echoes the shift seen in Jamie Foxx's character in "Collateral."

Glen Powell's Performance

Powell's performance channels elements of Tom Cruise’s early roles. Notably, Powell co-wrote "Hit Man," indicating his deep involvement in the project. His character, Gary, explores the concept of identity, playing different personas to fit his targets' expectations. Each disguise, from a neck tattoo to dark glasses, helps Gary embody the hit man stereotype.

Plot Development

The plot thickens when Gary meets Madison (Adria Arjona), a distressed woman seeking help to escape her abusive husband. Instead of taking the hit job, Gary persuades Madison to abandon her plan. They develop a romantic relationship, with Madison believing Gary is still the hit man "Ron." Gary himself begins to embrace this persona, becoming more confident and assertive.

Film's Themes and Style

"Hit Man" deconstructs the notion of stardom by presenting Gary as an everyman who can become extraordinary. The film blends fantasy and reality, showcasing Linklater's signature breezy and generous filmmaking style. This approach contrasts with other hit-man films like David Fincher’s "The Killer" and Harmony Korine’s "Aggro Dr1ft," offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

Conclusion

Linklater’s "Hit Man" stands out for its engaging narrative and Powell’s compelling performance. The film invites the audience to reflect on identity and transformation, making it a standout at the Venice Film Festival. As Gary tells his class, "If the universe is not fixed, then neither are you," encapsulating the film's central theme.