They don’t produce films like Grosse Pointe Blank anymore.

      We reflect on Grosse Pointe Blank, the cult classic that exemplifies the potential for genre-blending films. Studios today seem to appreciate a good mix of genres. While this isn't a new idea, the combination of action and comedy has been a staple for years. However, effectively integrating action into a primarily comedic film has proven to be more challenging. Major studios have continued producing such films, but the issue lies in the fact that comedy is inherently difficult to execute. Even films that manage to capture humor can struggle with action, as seen in the 2002 film Showtime, where the action felt tacked on.

      Today, investing in comedy-action films (often featuring actors like Ryan or Glenn Powell) usually results in mediocre, forgettable outcomes. I admire Richard Linklater, but his film Hit Man, while enjoyable, quickly faded from memory after viewing. The same can be said for The Hitman's Bodyguard (and its sequel with Ryan Reynolds) and The Fall Guy (with Ryan Gosling).

      The Fall Guy at least successfully delivered both comedy and action, and given David Leitch's background, expectations for carnage were high. Yet, the film's lackluster script left it feeling enjoyable but not deeply memorable. Despite Leitch’s solid comedic moments and a capable cast, the film leaned more towards being mere content.

      One could argue that studios do not prioritize the cultivation of a cult audience or lasting reverence. Their focus is on a film's initial box office performance before moving on to the next project. In the case of The Fall Guy and Hit Man, both are among the better examples of the genre. Generally, films that fuse genres with comedy as the main element tend to be underwhelming. However, getting this blend right and creating something enduring that fosters a cult audience is not impossible; perhaps we have simply forgotten how to achieve it. Shane Black has a knack for merging action and comedy, whether he emphasizes one over the other, and while he has produced many cult classics, he doesn’t always hit the mark, as seen with Play Dirty.

      One standout film from 1997 achieved moderate box office success, received decent reviews, and has since garnered a cult following: Grosse Pointe Blank. This film perfectly blends elements of black comedy, romantic comedy, and action. By the time he directed this subversive hitman movie, George Armitage was an experienced filmmaker, with Miami Blues, another crime-comedy fusion featuring Alec Baldwin, being one of his more notable works, though it didn’t reach the same heights. The film's lasting legacy largely stems from the brilliant script written by Tom Jankiewicz, D.V. DeVicentis, Steve Pink, and leading man John Cusack.

      The story follows Martin Blank, who, driven by fate, must return to his hometown for his high school reunion after having vanished for a decade (leaving behind his childhood sweetheart, Debi). Blank is neurotic and philosophical, grappling with moral dilemmas and career issues, much to the annoyance of his reluctant therapist (played brilliantly by Alan Arkin). He confronts the choices he's made and the regret over his lost love as he re-enters Grosse Pointe, reconnecting with old friends, his mother suffering from dementia, and an old home that has transformed into a mini-mart (which intriguingly includes a Doom 2 arcade cabinet). Meanwhile, he is pursued by rogue Feds, a competing hitman (Dan Aykroyd), and another mysterious assassin (Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez). Chaos is inevitable, but the journey to and from it is hilarious.

      The film is packed with memorable dialogue and is anchored by Cusack's uniquely charming performance, showcasing how effective casting can enhance a film rather than simply relying on "the star of the moment." While sometimes successful, actors like Glen Powell often find themselves in uninspired films that rest heavily on their charisma. He is being positioned as a "movie-star" akin to Tom Cruise or Harrison Ford, but such star power is not quite present.

      Grosse Pointe Blank excels at being perfectly crafted for Cusack, who had already established himself as a captivating and charismatic lead with depth, proudly carrying the mantle of cult cinema without being a major star. As Blank, he doesn’t force himself to fit a mold; instead, he embodies the character effortlessly.

      Cusack and the ensemble hit their comedic marks seamlessly, and the film equally succeeds in the action department. Cusack's involvement was likely crucial, as he trained in Kickboxing for years under renowned fighter Benny ‘The Jet’ Urquidez. His martial arts background dates back to his notable role in the 80s film Say Anything, in which he played an aspiring kickboxer.

      Now a 6th-degree black belt, Cusack seized the chance to exhibit his action skills and surprised many during his intense one-on-one fight with Urquidez (the menacing hitman). The movie