The Big Hit

Okay, so The Big Hit, with its goofy story line and wisecracking characters, may not be such a ‘big hit' for all audiences. But think ‘medium hit', and this hip, action-packed comedy isn't too bad. The film follows the misadventures of Melvin Smiley (Mark Wahlberg), a hardcore hit man who is actually a pretty nice guy. Looking to score extra cash, Melvin gets suckered into a weekend kidnap gig masterminded by fellow hit man, Cisco (Lou Diamond Phillips). Turns out the kidnap victim, a rich industrialist's daughter named Keiko (China Chow), is really their boss' goddaughter. To save his behind, Cisco lets the unsuspecting Melvin take the fall for betraying their boss. In the meantime, Melvin's mistress, Chantel (Lela Rochon), makes off with his earnings, while his fiancée, Pam (Christina Applegate), decides to call off their engagement. To make matters worse, an annoying teenage video store clerk is on Melvin's back, demanding the return of an overdue tape. The result is an explosive, fun-filled and hilarious showdown. Recommended. (M. K. Lau)