Hit Man: A Sultry Rom-Com with a Twist

Richard Linklater’s latest film, Hit Man, is a smart, provocative rom-com that dives into professional ethics and human morality, but its efficacy draws on some nostalgic old-school sex appeal from the Powell-Arjona duet.

Gary Johnson, a psychology professor-turned-faux hitman

The film works as Linklater’s sly commentary on the genre of hitman cinema, mischievously subverting expectations and critiquing the notion of the lone assassin as a cultural myth. Glen Powell, who also co-wrote and produced, sheds the machismo typecast that the high-octane Top Gun academy seems to have thrust upon him and delivers a fresh tour de force.

Gary’s chameleon-like quality, effortlessly switching between personas

The film’s narrative, inspired by a true story, explores the dichotomy between Gary’s unassuming daytime existence and his exhilarating nocturnal activities. The real Gary Johnson, whose life inspired the film, never crossed the line into actual murder, instead using his talents to ensnare those who sought his lethal services.

Maddy, a woman desperate to rid herself of an abusive ex

The film’s romantic subplot features Adria Arjona as Maddy, a woman desperate to rid herself of an abusive ex. When Gary, posing as the suave hitman “Ron,” convinces her to reconsider her drastic plan, sparks fly in the most unexpected of places.

Each sensual interaction is magnetic, with flirtatious quips exchanged in dimly lit bars

Bad Boys: Ride or Die - A Formulaic but Entertaining Ride

Bad Boys: Ride or Die is not breaking any new ground, but it’s an entertaining ride that will keep you engaged. The movie has its moments, but they are not enough to warrant a trip to the theater.

Mike Lowery and Marcus Burnett, back for the fourth installment of the franchise

The movie is overly formulaic, and the jokes don’t always land. However, it’s entertaining, and you’ll have a good time watching it.

The Watched - A Haunted Woodland Thriller

The Watched, based on a novel by Irish author A.M. Shine, feels like a companion piece to Knock At The Cabin. We’re deep in literal and metaphorical woods, and a random set of strangers gather for a momentous, ominous purpose.

Mina, lost in the haunted woods, arrives at a bunker where three mysterious strangers are studied by mysterious beings

The script is thin on character and keeps stumbling over plot points, but a decent cast pitches in, and the jump-scare button isn’t pushed too often. Dakota Fanning brings her A-game, and there’s enough mystery about the monsters in the woods to string audiences along until the satisfyingly weird finish.

The Coop, a concrete structure with a panoramic one-way mirror