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where was "hit man" filmed? exploring the university of new orleans

Where Was "Hit Man" Filmed?

Exploring the University of New Orleans and the Real-Life Inspiration Behind the Story of Gary Johnson

The film industry has a long-standing tradition of utilizing college campuses as dynamic backdrops for cinematic storytelling. One such recent example is the hit movie "Hit Man," which prominently features the University of New Orleans (UNO) as a primary filming location. But why was UNO chosen? And who is the real-life Gary Johnson, the man who inspired the film? Let’s delve into the details and explore how the University of New Orleans played a significant role in bringing this entertaining story to life.

Where was Hit Man filmed? — Hit Man was filmed on the campus of University of New Orleans

Key Filming Locations on Campus

Several recognizable spots on the UNO 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.

Hit Man the movie filmed at University of New Orleans

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. The University of New Orleans 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, UNO offers a picturesque setting that is both scenic and adaptable to various filming needs.

UNO’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, UNO’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 UNO 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.

UNO’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 UNO 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 UNO campus and interacting with its employees. According to Kathryn Dungy, professor and chair of history and philosophy, Powell shadowed the late UNO 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 UNO brought increased visibility to the university. As audiences around the world watch "Hit Man," they also get a glimpse of the beautiful UNO campus. This exposure is likely to attract prospective students and filmmakers alike, highlighting UNO as a vibrant and dynamic place to study and create.

The Future of Filming at UNO

The success of "Hit Man" at the University of New Orleans sets a promising precedent for future film projects at the university. UNO’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 UNO 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 the University of New Orleans was a testament to the campus’s versatility, beauty, and supportive community. From its diverse architectural styles to its collaborative spirit, UNO proved to be the perfect setting for this action-thriller.

As the film continues to captivate audiences, the University of New Orleans 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 UNO. You might just find yourself inspired to visit or even consider the university for your own academic or creative pursuits. The University of New Orleans, with its rich history and dynamic present, is ready to welcome the next wave of filmmakers and dreamers to its campus.