Title: Kick-Ass
Author: Mark Millar
First published February 1, 2010
208 pages, Hardcover
ISBN: 9781848565340 (ISBN10: 1848565348)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
Looking for a comic that delivers realistic super heroes with a punch? Look no further than Kick-Ass by Mark Millar, the book that takes the genre to the next level.
If you’ve ever dreamed of being a super hero, this is the comic for you. With the dynamic duo of Mark Millar (Civil War) and John Romita Jr. (World War Hulk) at the helm, Kick-Ass is an adrenaline-fueled ride that will leave you breathless.
Don’t miss out on the best new book of the 21st century – grab your copy of Kick-Ass, collecting issues 1-8.
About the Author
Mark Millar is a renowned author who has achieved great success with his best-selling novels such as Wanted, Kick-Ass series, The Secret Service, Jupiter’s Legacy, Jupiter’s Circle, Nemesis, Superior, Super Crooks, American Jesus, MPH, Starlight, and Chrononauts. Many of his books have also been adapted into popular feature films, including Wanted, Kick-Ass, Kick-Ass 2, and The Secret Service (adapted as Kingsman: The Secret Service).
Mark’s talent extends beyond writing as he has also produced all the movie adaptations of his books. Moreover, he has worked with major studios like Fox Studios as a creative consultant on their Marvel slate of movies.
Mark’s contribution to the comic book industry is immense, with his work on Superman: Red Son and The Ultimates being particularly noteworthy. Time magazine recognized The Ultimates as the comic book of the decade.
He has also created other notable works such as Wolverine: Old Man Logan and Civil War, which is the highest-selling superhero series in the industry for almost two decades.
Overall, Mark Millar is an accomplished author and producer, with a remarkable portfolio of work that has made a significant impact on the comic book and film industry.
Editoral Review
Mark Millar’s graphic novel Kick-Ass, first published in February 2010, is a violent, satirical take on the superhero genre that challenges the traditional conventions of comic book storytelling. Known for his boundary-pushing work on titles like The Ultimates and Wanted, Millar blends gallows humor with fast-paced action to create a visceral and stylish reading experience.
The story takes place in present-day New York City and centers around Dave Lizewski, a high school kid who decides to become a superhero named Kick-Ass, despite having no superpowers or combat training. As he stumbles into increasingly dangerous situations and gains a following on social media, Dave attracts the attention of both ruthless mobsters and a pair of lawless vigilantes, Hit-Girl and Big Daddy, who are on a mission to take down the city’s criminal underworld.
Millar’s sharp, irreverent writing is matched by artist John Romita Jr.’s dynamic, kinetic artwork, which brings to life the brutal hand-to-hand combat and gunfights that punctuate the story. The characters are vividly drawn, with Dave’s naïve enthusiasm, Hit-Girl’s deadly efficiency, and Big Daddy’s twisted righteousness creating a compelling trio of protagonists.
While some readers may be put off by the book’s dark humor and graphic violence, it is ultimately a commentary on the genre itself, satirizing the tropes of superhero narratives while still delivering on the visceral thrills they offer. It also touches on themes of identity, justice, and the power of social media, making it a timely work that speaks to current events and issues.
However, the book is not without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven at times, with some stretches of exposition and introspection slowing down the action.
Additionally, the book’s treatment of female characters has been criticized as overly sexualized and lacking agency, with Hit-Girl often played for shock value rather than emotional depth.
Overall, Kick-Ass is a stylish, subversive addition to the superhero canon, delivering on both the genre’s clichés and its potential for innovation.
Fans of Millar’s other work, as well as readers who enjoy a darkly comic take on superheroics, will find plenty to enjoy here. While not appropriate for younger readers or those disturbed by graphic violence, the book is a strong example of the possibilities of the graphic novel medium.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
