Review of Kick-Ass (2010) by Barney O — 07 Jul 2017

WHAT I LIKED: Kick-Ass is honestly one of the smartest comic-book adaptations ever put to the big screen, and largely that's down to the overriding satirical approach that director Matthew Vaughn brings to the fray. Yes in many ways this isn't only an adaptation of its source material; it's also a commentary on the genre itself, and whilst we could now compare that to 'Deadpool,' this film's approach is far more under-hand and quietly amusing. As a result you'll not only be grinning from ear to ear at the charm and mocking humour, but you may also find the messages from the themes this unlocks rather touching, and certainly investing. Couple all that with a set of very amusing and occasionally layered characters - as well as down-right brilliant in-the-moment humour and action - and you end up with a very smart and very enjoyable film indeed.

WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE: Occasionally things go a little over-the-top without quite enough serious grounding to bring us in. That applies to both the satire itself, and the often twisted nature of the story.

VERDICT: Michael Vaughn out-does himself a second time in another brilliantly satirical, smart and amusing venture that really shouldn't work as well as it does.