The Big Hit

The hosts of How Did This Get Made? dissect the 1998 film *The Big Hit*, a chaotic blend of action, romance, and cringe comedy that attempts to merge John Woo-style stylized violence with a farcical tone. Paul Scheer, Jason Van Zoukas, and June Diane Raphael express deep discomfort with the film’s handling of serious themes—statutory rape, murder, and kidnapping—reducing them to glib, joke-driven moments. They critique the absurdity of the plot, including a hitman who lives in the suburbs, chokes up body parts in a bathtub, and engages in a romance with a high school–age girl in a college uniform. The film’s tonal whiplash, dated 90s aesthetics (like hanging pot racks and VHS culture), and lack of coherent character motivation leave the hosts bewildered. Despite the flaws, they acknowledge the film’s charm in its ensemble of over-the-top performances, particularly Lou Diamond Phillips and Avery Brooks, and its nostalgic tribute to video stores. The episode ends with a bittersweet reflection on how the movie captures a fleeting, cringeworthy moment in pop culture history. The hosts offer several key takeaways: *The Big Hit* is a cautionary tale of tone misalignment—trying to be both a serious crime thriller and a comedic farce without mastering either. The film’s failure lies in its inability to balance grotesque violence with humor, resulting in a deeply uncomfortable viewing experience. The cast, though talented, is wasted on a script that lacks depth and coherence. Yet, the movie’s nostalgic value—especially its celebration of video stores and 90s pop culture—gives it a cult appeal. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder of how fleeting and often misguided cinematic trends can be, even when backed by strong performances and stylish direction.