Hitman

 

      Directed by Richard Linklater with a screenplay by Mr. Linklater and star Glen Powell, this cute "rom-com" would be ridiculous if it wasn't for the fact it's based on a true story.

      A shy, unassuming philosophy professor name Gary played by Mr. Powell moonlights as an IT person on stakeouts for the New Orleans Police Department. When their undercover officer portraying a contract killer gets suspended,  they ask Gary to step in as the fake hitman. He becomes so good at the job, they keep him on until one case gets very complicated.

     Mr. Powell is clearing having a moment since his breakout role in "Top Gun-Maverick". Later this summer, he will be starring in "Twisters" and recently starred in "Anyone But You".  He's fun to watch and has great chemistry with his co-star Adria Arjona. Their romantic scenes, in particular, are quite steamy.

     The film also co-stars Austin Amelio, Retta, Sanjay Rao, Molly Bernard and Evan Holtzman.

     Mr. Linklater keeps things light and fun but does delve gently into some philosophical questions about Id, Ego, and Self.

     The ending plays a bit too cute for my taste. Personally, I had hoped the whole film would be a bit darker with more depth but I can see how the screenplay was eager to please a wide audience.

     This is a Netflix exclusive.