review: HITMAN (Blu-ray)

Fox  //  Buy from Amazon.com An international assassin known only as Agent 47 (Timothy Olyphant) carries out high-profile hits for a mysterious organization known only as "The Agency" in this adaptation of the popular Eidos Interactive video-game series. Agent 47 is an elite, genetically engineered assassin who takes great pride in his work. His lethal grace, steady shot, and unparalleled precision have all served to make him one of the most sought after assassins in the world. But when the killer without a conscious is faced with an unanticipated series of developments, his entire perception of reality begins to shift. Although I've never played the (incredibly) popular video game this movie is based on, the trailer for this flick punched me squarely between the eyes and I couldn't wait to see it. I was sure it would have very little in the way of involved storyline, but had no doubts that it would more than make up for this with sheer action-packed entertainment - bullets, guns, babes and crazy-ass action sequences. In all that, it delivers. I was surprised to see that Timothy Olyphant has the lead role - he's probably one of my favorite actors, although he tends to be underused ("Live Free or Die Hard," for example.) As much as I genuinely like him, I'm conflicted as to whether he delivers a strong performance as the stoic, unemotional Agent 47, or if he's a little too wooden to be believable in this extraordinary role... Regardless, he carries the film, and delivers some truly impressive action sequences in this one. No doubt there'll be a sequel (or sequels), and I'm sure I'll watch every one of them - I may not have found myself emotionally invested in this film or the characters, but I was sure as hell entertained, and that ain't a bad thing. Video The 2.35:1 1080p high def transfer is absolutely flawless, rendering every single pixel in crystal-clear fashion. Audio The DTS-HD Master Lossless audio is also first-rate, delivering a booming, enveloping soundscape that'll put your entire surround set-up to work. Extras digital copy of film (for iPods, iTunes, etc.) "In the Crosshairs" featurette "Digital Hits" featurette "Instruments of Destruction" featurette "Settling the Score" featurette deleted scenes & alternate ending gag reel trailers Closing Thoughts Fluffy, entertaining popcorn flick + loads of extras = recommended for when you're looking to turn off the brain and just watch some eye candy