The Hit (1984) [The Criterion Collection]

Director: Stephen Frears
Stars: Terence Stamp, Freddie Stuart, Ralph Brown, A.J. Clarke

Terence Stamp is Willie, a gangster’s henchman turned “supergrass” (informer) trying to hide out peacefully in a remote Spanish village. Sun-dappled bliss turns to nerve-racking suspense, however, when two hit men—one soulless (John Hurt) and one a loose cannon (a youthful Tim Roth)—come calling to bring Willie back for execution. This stylish early gem from Stephen Frears boasts terrific hard-boiled performances from a roster of England’s best actors, music by Eric Clapton and virtuoso flamenco guitarist Paco de Lucía, and ravishing photography of its desolate Spanish locations—a splendid backdrop for a rather sordid story.



Audio commentary from 2009 featuring director Stephen Frears, actors John Hurt and Tim Roth, screenwriter Peter Prince, and editor Mick Audsley

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