Key Filming Locations on Campus
Several recognizable spots on the ľֱ campus were utilized during the filming of "Hit Man." Each location was chosen to enhance the narrative and provide an authentic feel to the scenes. Here are some of the key locations:
- Washington Oak Plaza: This scenic hub of student activity is located between the University Center and the Recreation & Fitness Center. The stately Washington Oak provides shade for a crucial scene in which Gary Johnson, played by actor Glen Powell, converses with his ex-wife.
- The Liberal Arts Building: This distinctive building is one of the oldest on campus. Built to resemble a ship, the LA Building is used for exterior shots to set up some of the longer classroom scenes. LA 120 and 140 were also used for those classroom scenes.
- The Amphitheatre: This beloved outdoor performance space, with its sloping lawn, is the site where Gary Johnson delivers a lecture to his class.
- Geology & Psychology Building: This two-story building on the west side of campus is featured in a scene where Gary Johnson goes about his day on campus.
- Science Building: SC 2120 was used for one of the classroom scenes.
The Plot of "Hit Man"
"Hit Man" is a black comedy/thriller that follows the journey of a University of New Orleans professor who moonlights as a fake hit man for the New Orleans Police Department. As he ventures deeper into his side gig, he is confronted by a number of moral dilemmas. The film’s humor and storyline are matched by its equally impressive cinematography, which captures the essence of each New Orleans-shot location used in the film.
For "Hit Man," director Richard Linklater sought a location that could provide a unique backdrop that felt both authentic and engaging. ľֱ emerged as an ideal choice due to its diverse architectural styles, lush landscapes, and vibrant campus atmosphere. Located on the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain, ľֱ offers a picturesque setting that is both scenic and adaptable to various filming needs.
ľֱ’s campus features a blend of buildings, providing location managers with a versatile range of settings. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its more traditional academic buildings, ľֱ’s architecture allows for a variety of scenes to be shot in one location. This versatility was a key factor in the decision to film significant portions of "Hit Man" at the university.
The Real Gary Johnson: Inspiration Behind "Hit Man"
The screenplay was based on real-life events reported in a Texas Monthly magazine article, and written by director Richard Linklater and actor Glen Powell. The real Gary Johnson was a part-time psychology instructor at a Houston-area community college who posed as a hitman to help police make arrests. The movie was originally going to be filmed in Houston but, according to Linklater, the decision was made to shoot in New Orleans due to Louisiana’s motion picture tax incentives.
The Filming Experience
The experience of filming at ľֱ was marked by a collaborative spirit between the filmmakers and the university community. Students and faculty members were excited to witness the transformation of their campus into a movie set. This enthusiasm translated into a smooth filming process, with the university providing support to the film crew.
ľֱ’s administration worked closely with the filmmakers to ensure that the filming process was efficient and minimally disruptive to the academic schedule. The cooperation between the university and the film crew was instrumental in creating a seamless production experience.
Impact on the University Community
The filming of "Hit Man" at ľֱ had a significant impact on the university community. For many students, the presence of a major film production on campus was an exciting and inspirational experience. It offered a unique glimpse into the world of filmmaking, providing aspiring filmmakers and actors with a firsthand look at the industry.
The production also benefited from shooting on the ľֱ campus and interacting with its employees. According to Kathryn Dungy, professor and chair of history and philosophy, Powell shadowed the late ľֱ philosophy professor Frank Schalow, attended his lectures, chatted with him about philosophy in order to better understand his character and even entertained Schalow’s beloved cats.
“Professor Schalow died a couple of days before the theatrical premiere,” Dungy said. “We are thankful to Glen Powell for releasing a bit of Frank’s charming and quirky personality to the world.”
Moreover, the film’s association with ľֱ brought increased visibility to the university. As audiences around the world watch "Hit Man," they also get a glimpse of the beautiful ľֱ campus. This exposure is likely to attract prospective students and filmmakers alike, highlighting ľֱ as a vibrant and dynamic place to study and create.
The Future of Filming at ľֱ
The success of "Hit Man" at ľֱ sets a promising precedent for future film projects at the university. ľֱ’s diverse range of settings, combined with its supportive community, makes it an attractive location for filmmakers. As the university continues to build its reputation as a film-friendly campus, it can expect to see more productions choosing ľֱ as their backdrop.
The university’s commitment to fostering a creative environment is evident in its support for film projects. This dedication not only benefits the film industry but also enriches the university community by providing unique opportunities for engagement and learning.
Conclusion
The choice to film "Hit Man" at ľֱ was a testament to the campus’s versatility, beauty, and supportive community. From its diverse architectural styles to its collaborative spirit, ľֱ proved to be the perfect setting for this action-thriller.
As the film continues to captivate audiences, ľֱ stands out as a star in its own right, showcasing the potential of academic institutions as dynamic and compelling filming locations. So, the next time you watch "Hit Man," keep an eye out for the beautiful backdrops and vibrant scenes shot at ľֱ. You might just find yourself inspired to visit or even consider the university for your own academic or creative pursuits. ľֱ, with its rich history and dynamic present, is ready to welcome the next wave of filmmakers and dreamers to its campus.