The 2007 film Hitman plunges viewers into a world of genetic engineering, political intrigue, and cold-blooded assassination, where Agent 47, a genetically engineered assassin, finds himself caught in a web of double-crosses and unexpected alliances after being tasked with eliminating a rogue Russian president. His mission quickly unravels, forcing him to uncover a larger conspiracy and fight for his survival against both Interpol and a shadowy organization seeking to exploit his unique abilities.
The Anatomy of an Assassination Gone Wrong
The film follows Agent 47 (Timothy Olyphant), a bald, barcoded assassin raised from childhood within a secret organization known as “The Agency.” He is tasked with killing Russian President Mikhail Belicoff. 47 successfully executes his mission, believing it to be just another contract. However, he soon discovers that Belicoff is alive and well, appearing on television shortly after his supposed death. This unexpected development signals a major problem: 47 has been set up.
Realizing he’s been betrayed, 47 goes rogue, seeking to understand the true nature of his contract and the identity of the person who ordered the hit. His investigation leads him to Nika Boronina (Olga Kurylenko), a beautiful prostitute who had a relationship with the real Belicoff. 47 believes Nika holds the key to unraveling the conspiracy.
While trying to protect Nika and uncover the truth, 47 is relentlessly pursued by Interpol, led by Agent Whittier (Dougray Scott). He skillfully evades capture, utilizing his exceptional combat skills, meticulous planning, and mastery of disguise. The pursuit takes him across Europe, from Russia to London to Istanbul, each location presenting new challenges and deadly encounters.
The film escalates as 47 learns that the “Belicoff” he killed was a decoy, and the real Belicoff is orchestrating a coup to seize power permanently. He also discovers that the conspiracy involves a shadowy group aiming to clone more assassins like himself, hoping to create an army of genetically enhanced killers. Nika’s knowledge of Belicoff’s operation becomes increasingly crucial.
In a climactic confrontation in Istanbul, 47 battles Belicoff’s forces and confronts the rogue president. He exposes Belicoff’s plan and eliminates him, preventing the coup and thwarting the cloning project. He also saves Nika, who demonstrates surprising resilience and resourcefulness throughout the ordeal. While their relationship remains ambiguous, a connection is clearly established. The film concludes with 47 disappearing once more, ready to undertake new assignments, his reputation as the ultimate assassin solidified.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Hitman
Who is Agent 47 and what makes him special?
Agent 47 is a genetically engineered assassin, created within a clandestine program run by “The Agency.” His DNA has been manipulated to enhance his strength, speed, intelligence, and regenerative abilities. He is also meticulously trained in combat, stealth, disguise, and various weaponry. His bald head and barcode tattoo are his defining features, making him instantly recognizable (though he’s adept at disguises).
What is “The Agency” and what is its purpose?
“The Agency” is a secret organization responsible for training and employing assassins, including Agent 47. They operate outside the law, taking on contracts from powerful clients around the world. Their motives are often shrouded in secrecy, and their internal workings are complex and hierarchical.
Why was Agent 47 tasked with killing President Belicoff?
Initially, Agent 47 believes he was contracted to assassinate President Belicoff due to political motives, potentially involving international relations or internal power struggles within Russia. However, the film reveals that the assassination was orchestrated as part of a larger conspiracy to destabilize Russia and allow the real Belicoff to seize absolute power.
Why did Agent 47 go rogue?
Agent 47 went rogue because he realized he was set up and that the person he killed was not the real President Belicoff. This betrayal violated the fundamental principles of “The Agency” and threatened his own existence. He sought to uncover the truth and identify those responsible for the deception.
Who is Nika Boronina and what role does she play in the story?
Nika Boronina is a prostitute with a past relationship with the real President Belicoff. She possesses crucial information about Belicoff’s plans and hidden assets, making her a target for both 47 and Belicoff’s enemies. She becomes an unlikely ally to 47, providing assistance and insight into the conspiracy.
What is the significance of the barcode on Agent 47’s head?
The barcode on Agent 47’s head is a unique identifier, signifying his status as a genetically engineered assassin created by “The Agency.” It’s a constant reminder of his origins and his purpose in life. While he can disguise himself, the barcode remains a permanent mark.
How does Agent 47 manage to evade capture by Interpol?
Agent 47 is a master of stealth, disguise, and combat. He anticipates his opponents’ movements, uses his environment to his advantage, and is highly skilled in various forms of weaponry. He’s also incredibly resourceful and adaptable, quickly adjusting his plans as circumstances change.
What is the cloning project that Agent 47 discovers?
The cloning project is a plan to create an army of genetically engineered assassins identical to Agent 47. This initiative is spearheaded by individuals seeking to exploit the assassins for their own nefarious purposes, potentially for political gain, military dominance, or other covert operations.
How does Agent 47 ultimately defeat President Belicoff?
Agent 47 confronts Belicoff in Istanbul and exposes his conspiracy to the world. He uses his combat skills and tactical brilliance to overcome Belicoff’s security forces and personally eliminates the rogue president, preventing the coup and the continuation of the cloning project.
What is the relationship between Agent 47 and Nika at the end of the film?
The relationship between Agent 47 and Nika remains ambiguous but suggestive. While their connection is primarily professional, they develop a certain level of trust and respect for each other. There’s an implied romantic interest, but it’s never explicitly stated or acted upon.
How does the movie differ from the Hitman video game series?
The movie Hitman deviates significantly from the video game series in several aspects. The film’s plot is often more convoluted, the characterization of Agent 47 is sometimes less nuanced, and the overall tone is generally more action-oriented than the games, which prioritize stealth and strategic planning. The depth of “The Agency” and its internal workings are also portrayed differently.
Is there a sequel to the 2007 Hitman movie, and how does it connect?
Yes, there is a sequel titled Hitman: Agent 47 (2015), starring Rupert Friend as Agent 47. However, it is essentially a reboot and does not directly continue the storyline of the 2007 film. It retells the origin story of Agent 47 and introduces new characters and plot elements, effectively existing in a separate continuity.