Ok, so I went out with impact gun and tools and tried it one. last. time. (making this around the 25th attempt).
It reluctantly popped open!
Now that I can see what is going on, I can conclude the problem is the latch assembly itself. Pulling the release rod only moves the hook about half the distance it should. Pulling on the rod like you are literally trying to rip it off the car will get the hook to retract- in fact on one test, I was pulling so hard the e-clip that holds the rod in place popped off and the rod came out.
Looks like it needs to be removed and just flat out dunked in oil or needs replacing. At least now I can get to it!
In the mean time, I put a block on the core support so the hood doesn't accidentally get pushed closed. I'll take a look at it this weekend.
Thanks for all the help guys!
-J