Review of Hitman: Agent 47 (2015) by G C — 26 Jan 2018

This movie is for fans of the game; an understandably if you don't know the game the movie will seem terrible outside of the game's frame of mind. However, if you are a fan of the game, this movie is a satisfying "movie" within the same universe.

The game itself is strongly story driven to paint the scene of each "mission"; while within the game the player is required to exercise patience and situational awareness. The gameplay is about tactical improvisation to survive while accomplishing your mission, and what makes the game so appealing. The movie pays countless homage to the same emotions and mood, while respecting that it is a completely different medium (movie). I found myself enjoying all the game elements turned movie; experiencing similar emotional responses to the game itself. This movie could be one of the best translations of a game to movie so far.

Unfortunately for the non-gamer viewer, I can see how they may have a hard time liking the character agent 47 himself, and maybe even the female protagonist. Both characters have a emotional shell that is hard to penetrate; yet at the same time this is exactly what is consistent with the Hitman universe. Perhaps the gamer benefits from the longer story history from the game; particularly from the concept of the "engineered children science" trope.

The "twist" at the first third of the movie is a new departure unique to the movie, and I welcomed it. Each interpretation of the characters that carry over from the game is consistent enough with the game to be maintain continuity, yet diverge enough from the game to be appreciated as a stand alone movie. It was both new and comforting at the same time; a balance that I was pleased with.

This is an action movie, and I really appreciated the thoughtful action scenes as they were very consistent with the character performing them. The action was visually impressive and conveyed the "super agent" that 47 is. This is NOT a Marvel movie and I'm thankful it isn't. The action is closer to the Borne series.

I would love to see more game-to-movie efforts go more in the direction this movie does; but unfortunately the general appeal isn't there without some shift if frame of expectations. If you're a Hitman 47 fan, go see this movie.