The feature that truly sets this film apart from other superhero classics is the mere violence and realism that the film portrays. Instead of saving the day, Dave consistently gets thwarted by bad guy after bad guy, beaten to a pulp by even the most miniscule criminals. His fallibility is what makes his character so relatable and drives the film’s plot as a whole. The violence grows exponentially as Dave’s story collides with that of two other superheroes, Hit Girl and Big Daddy, who seek to take revenge on the local crime lord Frank D’Amico. Its dark vengeful tone combined with an ironically colorful mis-en-scene make for hilarious, over-the-top action sequences that are reminiscent of Kill Bill or The Killer. However, the violent material has also caused Kick-Ass to receive quite a bit of flack. An Australian website Sydney Confidential reported that “the rating has outraged Australian family groups…the language is offensive and the values inappropriate—without the saving grace of the bloodless victory of traditional superheroes.”
The violence, though excessive, is a commentary on other films of the superhero genre. Films like Watchmen and The Dark Knight are shifting the style of these films in a darker direction. Though Kick-Ass is not a movie that would likely win awards for stunning cinematography or flawless acting, it is a great example of an emerging theme among present films. It is very reflective of the times. During harsh periods of uncertainty, which many people would consider our current economic situation, people look to a macabre depiction of life. The important message of this film is that in a world where crime and sadness are all too present, there is justice, it is just up to us to take it into our hands.
"Family Outrage at Film Kick Ass Violence and Swearing | The Daily Telegraph." The Daily Telegraph | Breaking News, Videos and Pictures from Sydney, NSW, Australia and the World | DailyTelegraph. Web. 05 May 2010.
VIDEO: Kick Ass - Hit Girl trailer
In an insightful epiphany I didn't expect to come from this sort of film, you write, "The important message of this film is that in a world where crime and sadness are all too present, there is justice, it is just up to us to take it into our hands."
ReplyDeleteThis truth of vigilantism is something I would have expected more from a film like Boondock Saints, not Kick-Ass, so you definitely upped my interest in this film :)
I also heard reviews that the actress who played "Hit Girl" stole the scenes and is a standout to watch for in the future. Any thoughts on that?