Is Hit Man based on a true story?

Hit Man

"Hit Man" is a 2023 American romantic black comedy directed and produced by Richard Linklater, who co-wrote the screenplay with Glen Powell. The film is based on Skip Hollandsworth's 2001 Texas Monthly article of the same name. The cast includes Glen Powell, Adria Arjona, Austin Amelio, and Retta. The story revolves around an undercover police contractor in New Orleans who pretends to be a hitman and ends up trying to rescue a woman in trouble.

The film premiered at the 80th Venice International Film Festival on September 5, 2023. It was released in select U.S. theaters on May 24, 2024, and made available for streaming on Netflix starting June 7. "Hit Man" was well-received by critics.

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Is Hit Man Based on a True Story?

Netflix's 'Hit Man' is inspired by the true story of Gary Johnson, who posed as a contract killer for Houston police. Learn about the real events behind the series, from Johnson's undercover work to the fictionalized elements in the show. "Hit Man" is inspired by a true story but takes creative liberties for entertainment purposes.

The movie draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of Gary Johnson, as detailed in a 2001 Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth. Johnson, a college professor turned fake hitman for the Houston police, worked undercover to expose individuals seeking contract killers.

In the film, aspects of Johnson's story are adapted to fit the narrative, including his role as an undercover operative posing as a hitman. While the core premise of an undercover hitman working with law enforcement is rooted in reality, the specific events and characters in the movie may be fictionalized for dramatic effect.

Hit Man Plot

In "Hit Man", Gary Johnson balances his life as a professor at the University of New Orleans with his undercover work for the local police. When his colleague Jasper gets suspended, Gary steps into Jasper's shoes as a fake hitman to catch criminals trying to hire killers.

During one operation, Gary meets Madison, a troubled woman seeking to have her abusive husband eliminated. As they talk, Gary develops feelings for Madison, but he keeps his real identity hidden behind his "Ron" persona. He tries to help Madison restart her life instead of taking her money.

Their relationship grows complicated as they become romantically involved, but Gary continues to play his role as "Ron." Madison confides in Gary about owning a gun, and he teaches her how to use it for self-defense. Their encounter with Madison's ex-husband Ray turns violent, leading Gary to intervene with a gun.

Later, Ray tries to have Madison killed, unknowingly contacting Gary for the job. Gary confronts Ray without backup, leading to a tense confrontation. Ray's subsequent death raises suspicions, with Gary and Madison under scrutiny. To clear Madison's name, Gary pretends to interrogate her as "Ron" to elicit a confession, but they fool the police into believing she's innocent.

However, Jasper, jealous of Gary's success, demands money from Madison, leading to a fatal confrontation. Gary covers up Jasper's death and helps Madison escape suspicion. In the end, Gary and Madison start a new life together, happily married with children, showcasing the complex twists and turns of their unconventional relationship.

Hit Man Cast

How To Watch Hit Man?

• On Netflix: The movie is available for streaming on Netflix starting from June 7, 2024, after its theatrical release.
• In Theaters: "Hit Man" will also be playing in select theaters, so you can enjoy it on the big screen if you prefer the cinematic experience.