Hancock (2008) – Streaming on Lionsgate Play
Hancock (2008) is not your typical superhero film. Instead of a noble, polished savior, we get a hero who is grumpy, reckless, and completely uninterested in public approval. Streaming now on Lionsgate Play, the film blends action, comedy, and emotional drama with a unique twist on the superhero genre.
Directed by Peter Berg, the movie stars Will Smith in one of his most unconventional roles — a superhero who saves lives but destroys everything else in the process.
Story Overview
John Hancock is a man with extraordinary powers — he can fly, survive massive impacts, and take down criminals with ease. But there’s one big problem: he’s careless. Every rescue mission leaves behind millions in property damage, and the public is fed up.
Hancock lives like a washed-up celebrity rather than a role model. He drinks heavily, keeps to himself, and often sleeps on park benches. He doesn’t care what people think — or at least that’s what he tells himself.
Everything changes when he saves Ray Embrey, a kind-hearted public relations expert. Grateful for his life, Ray offers to help Hancock fix his damaged reputation. He believes the world doesn’t hate Hancock — it just doesn’t understand him.
As Hancock spends time with Ray and his family, especially Ray’s wife Mary, he begins to uncover pieces of his forgotten past. What starts as a redemption story slowly turns into something deeper, revealing secrets about Hancock’s identity, his powers, and his connection to Mary.
The film shifts from comedy to emotional drama, exploring loneliness, immortality, and the burden of being different.
Main Cast
- Will Smith as John Hancock
- Charlize Theron as Mary Embrey
- Jason Bateman as Ray Embrey
- Jae Head as Aaron Embrey
- Eddie Marsan as Kenneth “Red” Parker Jr.
The chemistry between Will Smith, Charlize Theron, and Jason Bateman gives the film both humor and emotional weight.
Content & Tone
Hancock carries a more mature tone compared to many superhero movies. It includes:
- Violence and intense action scenes
- Strong language
- Alcohol use and smoking
- Sexual references and brief nudity
- Some frightening moments
This makes it better suited for older teens and adults.
Crew
- Director: Peter Berg
- Writers: Vy Vincent Ngo, Vince Gilligan
- Producers: Akiva Goldsman, James Lassiter, Michael Mann, Will Smith
- Production Companies: Columbia Pictures, Relativity Media, Overbrook Entertainment, Weed Road Pictures, Forward Pass, Blue Light
- Distributor: Sony Pictures Releasing
What Makes Hancock Different
Unlike traditional superheroes, Hancock is deeply flawed. He struggles with:
Public rejection
Loneliness and emotional isolation
A mysterious past he can’t remember
The responsibility that comes with great power
The film mixes superhero spectacle with a surprisingly emotional story about identity and belonging.
Final Take
Hancock stands out as a bold and unusual entry in the superhero genre. It delivers big action moments, sharp humor, and an emotional twist that redefines who Hancock really is. If you want a superhero film that breaks the mold, this one is worth watching on Lionsgate Play.
