Netflix’s latest release, “Hit Man,” directed by Richard Linklater, brings a fascinating blend of romance, comedy, and action to the screen. The film, which stars and is co-written by Glen Powell, centers on Gary Johnson, a psychology professor who discovers an unexpected talent for posing as a fake hitman.
As the story unfolds, Johnson’s life takes a thrilling turn when he begins to entrap criminals for the local police. However, the plot thickens when he encounters Madison, a woman who wants her husband killed but instead finds herself entangled in a romantic web with Johnson.
The True Story Behind “Hit Man”
Yes, “Hit Man” is indeed based on a true story, albeit loosely. The character of Gary Johnson, portrayed by Powell, draws inspiration from a real individual who posed as a contract killer for the Houston police in the late 1980s and 1990s.
The real Gary Johnson’s story was first brought to public attention through a 2001 Texas Monthly article by Skip Hollandsworth. Having previously adapted another Hollandsworth piece for his 2011 film “Bernie,” Linklater saw potential in Johnson’s story for a cinematic adaptation.
Gary Johnson: The Man Behind the Myth
The real Gary Johnson was a college professor who found an unusual calling working undercover for the police. His journey began in 1981 when he moved to Houston, hoping to join the University of Houston’s doctoral program in psychology.
When he wasn’t admitted, Johnson pivoted to a job as an investigator for the district attorney’s office. His unique career path took a dramatic turn in 1989 when a lab technician named Kathy Scott sought a hitman to kill her husband. The police enlisted Johnson for the role, marking the beginning of his new identity as a fake hitman.
Whenever the police received information about someone seeking a contract killer, Johnson was called upon. Wired for sound, he had to extract explicit confirmation of murderous intentions from his “clients” and secure payment for the supposed job.
His extraordinary ability to adapt and convincingly portray various personas made him an invaluable asset to the police, leading to over sixty arrests.
The Chameleon-Like Abilities of Gary Johnson
Gary Johnson’s success in this dangerous undercover role was attributed to his remarkable acting skills. Michael Hinton, a prominent Houston lawyer, described Johnson as a “perfect chameleon” who could seamlessly blend into any role required by the situation.
This talent for performance was crucial in persuading individuals from all walks of life that he was a genuine hitman, enabling the police to gather the necessary evidence for arrests.
In his article, Hollandsworth lauded Johnson as “one of the greatest actors of his generation,” capable of performing under immense pressure with an impressive range of personas. Despite the high stakes, Johnson remained composed and convincing, a testament to his unique skill set and dedication.
The Fictional Flourishes in “Hit Man”
While “Hit Man” stays true to the essence of Johnson’s story, it takes creative liberties for dramatic effect. For instance, the film embellishes Johnson’s use of disguises.
In reality, Johnson did employ minor disguises, but the film amplifies this aspect significantly, portraying him with a variety of humorous costumes, accents, and mannerisms. This creative decision by Linklater and Powell adds a layer of entertainment and flair to the narrative, enhancing its cinematic appeal.
Another significant departure from reality is the romantic subplot involving Madison, played by Adria Arjona. The film depicts Johnson developing a romantic relationship with Madison, a client who initially wants her husband dead.
In truth, while Johnson did assist an abuse victim, there is no evidence of a romantic involvement. Nonetheless, this fictional element adds emotional depth and complexity to the storyline, exploring themes of identity, deception, and passion.
Gary Johnson’s Personal Life and Legacy
Despite his professional success, Gary Johnson’s personal life was fraught with challenges. He was married three times, and his second wife described him as a loner who enjoyed solitude despite his outwardly friendly demeanor at social gatherings. This duality in his personality highlights the intriguing contrast between his public and private selves.
Johnson’s story, as captivating as it is, came to an end in 2022 when he passed away. However, his legacy lives on through the Netflix film, bringing his extraordinary life and undercover exploits to a broader audience.
A Tale of Deception and Intrigue
“Hit Man” on Netflix offers viewers a riveting glimpse into Gary Johnson’s life. It blends truth with creative storytelling to deliver a compelling narrative. Richard Linklater and Glen Powell have crafted a film that entertains and delves into deeper themes of identity and self-discovery.
The real Gary Johnson’s story, marked by his remarkable acting skills and daring undercover work, serves as the foundation for this cinematic journey. As audiences watch Johnson navigate his dual life as a fake hitman, they are reminded of the incredible true story that inspired it all – a story of a man who could convincingly become anyone, fooling even the most discerning eyes.
