Filmmaker Richard Linklater on Hit Man and whether people can change
Dec 2, 2024
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Richard Linklater, the renowned filmmaker behind classics like School of Rock and Boyhood, discusses his latest thriller, Hit Man. He dives into the film's exploration of identity and masculinity, highlighting a philosophy professor’s transformation into a faux hitman. Linklater also reflects on how personal experiences, including the pandemic, shape one's sense of self and authenticity. Additionally, he shares insights into the evolution of filmmaking amidst digital changes and the importance of genuine human connections in today's world.
Richard Linklater's film Hit Man explores the complexities of identity and transformation through its protagonist's duality as a philosophy professor and an undercover hitman.
The podcast highlights Linklater's ongoing examination of masculinity, emphasizing societal pressures and personal experiences that shape male identity throughout different life stages.
Deep dives
Exploration of Identity and Change
The film centers around the character of Gary, a philosophy professor who adopts various personas while working as an undercover hitman. This narrative raises significant questions about identity, particularly the extent to which individuals can evolve and change throughout their lives. Gary's transformation as he embodies the 'sexy' character of Ron, in contrast to his mundane reality, serves as a catalyst for exploring these themes. The film presents an engaging examination of whether self-actualization is a matter of choice or a fixed aspect of one’s personality.
The Complexities of Masculinity
Masculinity is a recurring theme in the director's body of work, often explored through nuanced male characters navigating their identities. The conversation reveals a personal interest in understanding the behaviors and pressures that shape male experiences, particularly in formative years. The film portrays a spectrum of male experiences and highlights the tension between societal expectations and individual aspirations. This exploration invites viewers to reflect on their own understanding of masculinity and the conversations surrounding it.
Adapting to Changing Media Consumption
The discussion touches on the evolving nature of film distribution, highlighting the transition to streaming as a prevalent form of consuming cinema. The director notes that while the medium may change, the essential process of filmmaking remains constant and rooted in storytelling. New viewing habits, shaped by technology and lifestyle changes, can actually broaden the audience for films that might otherwise be overlooked. This adaptability in the filmmaking process suggests that filmmakers must embrace these changes and remain committed to their craft regardless of the medium.
Filmmaker Richard Linklater’s movies span blockbusters, such as School of Rock, cerebral indie classics like Boyhood, and a hard-to-define TheBeforeTrilogy. His most recent film, Hit Man, is a thriller, but it picks up on many themes that Linklater has explored before, such as identity and masculinity. Today, he reflects on the film in conversation with Lilah.
Danny also spoke with Richard Linklater in 2018 about his portrayal of masculinity in the movie Last Flag Flying: https://on.ft.com/3Va6v5L
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