Glen Powell headlines in Hit Man, a film by Richard Linklater that is based loosely on a true story. It allows Powell to lean both into his dramatic and comedic talents, and be charming the entire way through.

Powell plays Gary Johnson, an almost nebbish philosophy professor who also does some work with the local New Orleans police department. Things unexpected escalate when Gary has to go undercover as hit man to get suspects to incriminate themselves by wanting to hire him.

Both Powell and Gary slip easily into the idea, with a number of fun character bits bringing a variety of professional killers to life. His an instant success at this new assignment and is really enjoying himself, embracing this other side of him, while still treasuring his solo time at home with his cats.

Then he meets Madison (Adria Arjona). Suffering from an abusive relationship, she comes to Gary as Ron, hoping he will kill her husband if she pays enough. Before she can incriminate himself, he suggests she take the money and run, leave her husband behind and start a new life.

When the two continue communicating a relationship begins between them, and things get complicated quit, especially when Madison’s husband ends up murdered.

By turns comedy, dramatic, romantic and sexy Powell shows a lot of range and ability, and is just inherently likable onscreen. There’s some fantastic chemistry between he and Arjona, and the story brings a number of ethical questions to the fore, which is something Gary Johnson, philosophy professor would appreciate.

Arjona is simply beguiling, vulnerable, powerful and sexy, she is perfectly matched with Powell, who conveys those same things in his performance.

Linklater has always been a solid director, and has crafted an engaging tale, with help from Powell. It’s entertaining, and Powell is absolutely a joy to watch in this role. He just looks like he’s having a great time slipping into one character after another, and his realization as Gary that he can be more, that he can be Gary and Ron is a well plotted and played out arc.

Powell is making a name for himself. He seems down-to-earth, classy, humble, accessible, and has that old-style movie star quality that draws people in. He’s great to watch, and I will openly admit to being a fan, and plan to follow his career with joy.

Hit Man is an enjoyable film with a great story, that poses a number of ethical dilemmas while also being funny, and sexy. Let’s see what else Powell has for us in the future.