It seems that Ryan Reynolds has a special touch lately, even making the most forgettable movies popular again. Although The Hitman’s Bodyguard had a modest 43% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it has recently surged back into the spotlight, landing at #10 on Netflix’s Top 10 list.
Directed by Patrick Hughes, this 2017 action-comedy pairs Reynolds with Samuel L. Jackson. Reynolds plays Michael Bryce, a bodyguard who has fallen on hard times.
Jackson stars as Darius Kincaid, a hitman who needs protection while testifying against a ruthless Eastern European dictator, played by Gary Oldman. The film’s simple premise—combining two actors with great comedic timing, lots of action, and humor—makes it entertaining.
When it was first released, critics were not impressed. They thought the movie relied too much on familiar buddy-cop tropes, finding the plot predictable and the humor inconsistent.
However, the strong chemistry between Reynolds and Jackson, along with their witty exchanges, kept audiences entertained. The film also delivered plenty of action with shootouts, car chases, and explosions that action fans enjoy.
Even with mixed reviews, The Hitman’s Bodyguard was a commercial success, earning over $176 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. This success showed that while it might not have been a critical favorite, it resonated with audiences who wanted a fun and action-filled movie.
This popularity led to a sequel, Hitman’s Wife’s Bodyguard, in 2021. Although the sequel didn’t do much better with critics, it reminded people of the original film, encouraging new viewers and fans of the first movie to check out The Hitman’s Bodyguard on Netflix.
Why Are Audiences Rewatching ‘The Hitman’s Bodyguard’?
Several reasons could explain the movie’s resurgence online. Ryan Reynolds is everywhere these days due to the success of Deadpool and Wolverine, as well as his prominent media presence with his wife, Blake Lively, who is promoting her latest film, It Ends With Us.
Additionally, the film’s fun premise and the timeless appeal of the buddy-comedy dynamic between Reynolds and Jackson make it a great choice for streaming viewers looking for light and engaging entertainment.
