I’ve been kneeling at the cinematic alter of Oscar nominee Richard Linklater since the 90s. From Dazed and Confused to the Before Trilogy to School of Rock and Boyhood, Richard Linklater never fails to provide a cinematic feast to devour. While now and then, you’ll find a few bumps in that journey, Linklater’s filmography stands as one the most entertaining array of selections imaginable.

Not only does Richard Linklater return, but he puts the ideal contract out for his Hit Man. It’s a stylishly sexy comedy that stands as Linklater’s best film since Boyhood. Hit Man captures Linklater’s finesse in implementing laugh-out-loud moments while incorporating unmitigated tension.

Based on Skip Hollandsworth’s 2001 Texas Monthly magazine article, Hit Man tells the story of Gary Johnson, a college professor in New Orleans who lives a quiet life with his cats. That is until his part-time job for the police department puts him undercover as a “Hit Man” recording covert sting operations.

When brought in on another operation, Gary meets Madison (Adria Arjona), and after an instant connection, Gary’s life is turned upside down as he must deal with the consequences of his job and his love life.

While the premise sounds formulaic, Linklater and Glen Powell’s screenplay is rich in philosophical ideas and the gray area between right and wrong. The duo’s script captures the essence of comedy and drama while implementing a sex appeal that has been lacking in our recent romantic comedies for quite some time.

Aiding that sex appeal is Powell and Arjona’s electric screen presence. The duo shares such a magnetic chemistry that it’s impossible not to sweat after any of their scenes conclude. Not only that, but the two are downright hilarious together, culminating in a third-act interaction that had my entire theater screaming in laughter.

While a fan of Powell, I’ve felt he has yet to have a star-making lead turn, and Hit Man takes care of that as Powell’s performance is charismatic and versatile. All of Powell’s choices work and aid in Powell giving one of the essential comedic takes of the year.

Hit Man fully captures Linklater’s playful and energetic style, making the film a home run. With Netflix purchasing the film, it would be smart if they gave it a substantial theatrical release. It’s one of the best experiences this year. Even in a press screening, the audience erupted in laughter and applause, which made Hit Man the perfect contract for all cinephiles to embark on and accept.