Kick-Ass (Excuse the language)

[LiNo]

Like the title says!

And there's no better way to celebrate KICK-ASS WEDNESDAY than to buy a copy (or two) of Kick-Ass #1 from your local comic shoppe.

Millar, JRjr, Marvel/Icon - what more is there?

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v636/tijvuxeo/Kick_Promo_1.jpg

:D

[IronKing]

What is it about?

[LiNo]

Kick Ass #1
32 full color pages
Written by: Mark Millar
Art by: John Romita Jr.
Release Date: February 27, 2008
Price: $2.99

The greatest super hero comic of all-time is finally here. WOLVERINE: ENEMY OF THE STATE's team of MARK MILLAR (CIVIL WAR) and JOHN ROMITA JR. (WORLD WAR HULK) reunite for the best new book of the 21st century.

Have you ever wanted to be a super hero? Dreamed of donning a mask and just heading outside to some kick-ass? Well, this is the book for you--the comic that starts where other super hero books draw the line. KICK-ASS is realistic super heroes taken to the next level. Miss out and you're an idiot!

[IronKing]

I read that. But I still don't have any clue. lol

[drwho]

I really dont see the appeal of this series when there are good books out there plus I hated wolverine enemy of the state.

[Will.S]

Looking forward to it.

[LiNo]

Even if you're not a Millar fan, JRjr's really stepped up in the art stakes - it's worth it even just for that.

Millar's note:

"I first started putting these ideas together back in 2005 so it feels great to see it all finally coming out. One thing friends have pointed out is that this series has a warmth I tend to avoid. There's a total lack of British cynicism here and it's really, oddly sentimental, despite the fact that half the pages are splattered with blood. It's about a wee guy just going out and trying to do the right thing because he feels everybody's focusing on the wrong aspects of life. Anyway, it's a book we're really proud of and I GUARANTEE nobody will figure out where it goes from here."

And the first few pages are here:
http://www.myspace.com/kickass_comic

[thegreenking]

Cant wait to get my copy :evilsmile

[fudgekp]

Really looking forward to it, being a massive Millar fanboy.

[CyberCoyote]

Wow, guess I'm an idiot because merchandising said so :D

Skinny teenager thinks about masturbating, swears a lot, and gets his testicles fried. I'm such a fool for not thinking that's the greatest comic book ever. I got enough of those comics a few decades ago in Heavy Metal Magazine but many folks never got to read those so they should enjoy it.

[Excelsior]

I just read it. Interesting turn, totally unexpected. If I were to attempt to be a superhero why would I attack Graffiti artists LOL. And who knew that they were that hard core LOL.

[Trey]

Why is Jrjr wasting his time with this? Real lame idea. I flipped thru it. I don't want to read about young punks beating on each other. I read the note in back. Looks like Jrjr is onboard for more arcs after this? Did I read that right?

[Deadpooligan]

I enjoyed it, but the kid is a really really bad exaggeration of teenage geeks today. The swearing was a little much though.

Art was great, and I like where this is going. Certainly a lot of ass-kicking in the first ish, rather, ass-getting-kicked.

[Croaker]

Why is Jrjr wasting his time with this? Real lame idea. I flipped thru it. I don't want to read about young punks beating on each other. I read the note in back. Looks like Jrjr is onboard for more arcs after this? Did I read that right?

I hate to come into a thread in favor of a new book and trash it, but really, I am with you. I hope I am wrong and it sells millions of copies and I eat my words while frantically scrabbling to find even one first printing for less than $1000 but the whole concept was just, blah.

Marvel seriously invested a lot in this title in both advertising and talent. Unfortunately Marvel still seems to equate a "mature" title to the amount of printed swearing rather than complex plot points with real adult issues. Oh sure, testicular electrocution is bold but let's set aside that and the rest of the puerile content and examine the story. Is this really anything new? Sadly, not in my estimation.

Again, let me be wrong. Let Marvel re-energize the entire comic industry with this book. However, I predict a short run without any real advancement of the genre.

[Capt USA]

yep he kept saying "I'm just like everyone else" and yet he was pretty much the cardboard cutout of a geek.

I liked the first issue even if it moved a little too slow for me, as it stands there is no telling how successful this kid was or not (talking about a guy imitating him, but how can you believe this kid when he seems to think prepping for being a superhero involved walking on the edge of a ledge and doing some curls.)

It's apparent that at some point in time he is successful, but to what degree? Still I liked the book even with the overhype. Agree about the cussing, a tad more than most people would say in real life, I really wish writers would understand that the vast majority of people don't cuss all the time.

[Agent_Torpor]

Was this teenage angsty melodrama or something? I flipped thru it at my local just to see what the hell it was all about. Didn't buy it.

[Croaker]

Was this teenage angsty melodrama or something? I flipped thru it at my local just to see what the hell it was all about. Didn't buy it.

Eh, that's really pretty close to what I got out of it, honestly.

[gunz]

i loved it. i thought it was "kick-ass".......... alright that was really lame. Anyway, i thought it was a cool book. I know the concept has been done before, but I still think it was preatty cool. Not the greatest thing ever, but still very enjoyable. I thought millar nailed the way teenagers talk, mainly because i talk like that, (though in all fairness, i am two years removed from being a teenager and mabye just a very angry person). The one line after he talks about no one wanting to be spider-man in front of the girls was FANTASTIC, i laphed at loud

[Agent_Torpor]

Eh, that's really pretty close to what I got out of it, honestly.

Hmm, let it never be said that Marvel isn't up for some well-intentioned edutainment. Almost like a poorly-shot NBC "The More You Know" psa from the early 90s starring Tiffani Amber Thiessen.

[Croaker]

Hmm, let it never be said that Marvel isn't up for some well-intentioned edutainment. Almost like a poorly-shot NBC "The More You Know" psa from the early 90s starring Tiffani Amber Thiessen.

MmmMMMmm, Saved by the Bell chicks!

[mikekerr3]

yep he kept saying "I'm just like everyone else" and yet he was pretty much the cardboard cutout of a geek.

I liked the first issue even if it moved a little too slow for me, as it stands there is no telling how successful this kid was or not (talking about a guy imitating him, but how can you believe this kid when he seems to think prepping for being a superhero involved walking on the edge of a ledge and doing some curls.)

It's apparent that at some point in time he is successful, but to what degree? Still I liked the book even with the overhype. Agree about the cussing, a tad more than most people would say in real life, I really wish writers would understand that the vast majority of people don't cuss all the time.


Meh or a litlle less, the art was good but the story wasn't. My time would have been better spent readin Thor #6 twice(which I did anyway). Nothing bad but what was all the hype about?

[Croaker]

Meh or a litlle less, the art was good but the story wasn't. My time would have been better spent readin Thor #6 twice(which I did anyway). Nothing bad but what was all the hype about?

Yeah, I agree. If the hype had been met with a likewise incredible story I might have jumped all over this. Unfortunately this was just not good.

[CyberHubbs]

I need to read a second issue before I decide. Get the feeling it is suppose to be the struggle of a boy to hero with a real-time twist, including the chance of failure in the end. Not so much the destination as it is the journey.

Edit: This did point out Marvel: 1985 to me, though. Never heard about it before the advertisement in the back.

[bert]

Didn't really care for it, and it had the bad luck of coming out the same week as Jeff Smith's new book, RASL, (which had WAY less cussing, and way worse art, and yet, I still ended up buying it after reading it in the store).

speaking of the art, while lovely, JR's "black kids" look strikingly like they were using John Byrne's models. I would have sworn Byrne drew those graffitti artists. . .

[Dr. Chaos]

In all fairness, the kid kind of got what he deserved for the Galactus comment.

You'll find nerd karma often catches up to you in the form of a high speed vehicle.

In all seriousness, really good debut issue, Mark might not write the "smartest" stories out there but he's never been boring.

[Croaker]

In all fairness, the kid kind of got what he deserved for the Galactus comment.

You'll find nerd karma often catches up to you in the form of a high speed vehicle.

In all seriousness, really good debut issue, Mark might not write the "smartest" stories out there but he's never been boring.

And, ultimately, as much as I disliked the issue on several points, it wasn't exactly boring, you are right. Now if being not exactly boring is a glowing endorsement, I suspect we'd have many more ongoing titles.

[Cash Lone]

The story really hasnt hooked me but I'll definitely get the next issue to check things out. The cliffhanger was a doozy. I am a bit intrigued how our protagonist "inspires" other copycat heroes.

[drwho]

I honestly dont get Millar's popularity. Did you all just buy the book on the name itself, or the actual solicits? What drove you to purchase this?

[Croaker]

The story really hasnt hooked me but I'll definitely get the next issue to check things out. The cliffhanger was a doozy. I am a bit intrigued how our protagonist "inspires" other copycat heroes.

To be fair, I bet more than one idiot lopped off an ear because of Van Gogh.

[Dr. Chaos]

I honestly dont get Millar's popularity. Did you all just buy the book on the name itself, or the actual solicits? What drove you to purchase this?
I actually bought it on the premise, not Millar.

The idea of some stupid kid going out and getting his ass kicked in a wet suit by the mob sounded pretty funny to me.

[CyberCoyote]

I didn't read it, but a thought (rare occasion, I know) hit me reading the first few posts about it. I'm no fan of Millar and feel he really doesn't think much of comics fans. Not that he dislikes 'em, but has a rather skewered opinion of who he's writing for. From all his interviews about this Bloody incredible greatest book ever so amazing Kirby will rise from the grave to beg for Millar's autograph he explains that the book is about a regular every day ordinary guy that blah blah blahs.

So is this kid showing us how Millar sees himself as an 'average guy', or is this him trying to write a character that he thinks the average comic reader will whole heartedly relate to as being his peer and avatar? Several reviews have the kid as a stereotypical loser geek, whom I hope no one can relate to, and it very well could be he was written to be kinda pathetic in the readers' eyes and all the 'average guy' stuff was a bunch of smoke.

Just wondering what the take away there is for those that read it.

[Dr. Chaos]

Millar has said this book has a warmth to it that's not found in his other work.

I gotta be honest with you, it might become apparent in later issues but I didn't see it, I thought it actually had a dark and somewhat creepy tone to it.

The whole scene where he told the guy he hadn't come up with a name yet, I found that a lil disturbing (in a good way).

[Omega Alpha]

This was pretty good. There's an interesting "what if Peter Parker was a superhero with no powers" thing. I didn't mind the overhyping because it was clearly overhyping and even the solicits pretty much admitted it, and looking forward to see the poor guy getting his ass kicked again.

[StoneGold]

The whole scene where he told the guy he hadn't come up with a name yet, I found that a lil disturbing (in a good way).

There was a lot that was disturbing. Let's face it, bushwacking some kids with a hidden truncheon for tagging, that's not exactly tit for tat, you know?

[Dr. Chaos]

There was a lot that was disturbing. Let's face it, bushwacking some kids with a hidden truncheon for tagging, that's not exactly tit for tat, you know?
This is true aswell.

It's just the way he takes everything in a "oh well, it happens" stride, even as he's being brutally stabbed.

Not to make it sound like I'm complaining though, I want Millar knock this series off the deep end of disturbing realism.

[HouseSolo]

I thought the issue was great because it was actually funny. It started out great, I should say, and ended good. I'll definitely be picking up issue 2.

As for him being a poster-boy geek I don't totally agree. They weren't making him the science nerd that comics often associate with geeks, and he certainly had friends which is another thing not associated with geeks.

Anyway, I thought the opening few pages were the best part, and then later when he was looking at himself in the mirror, "You are fucking awesome." It was surprisingly funny.

[Capt USA]

I thought the issue was great because it was actually funny. It started out great, I should say, and ended good. I'll definitely be picking up issue 2.

As for him being a poster-boy geek I don't totally agree. They weren't making him the science nerd that comics often associate with geeks, and he certainly had friends which is another thing not associated with geeks.

Anyway, I thought the opening few pages were the best part, and then later when he was looking at himself in the mirror, "You are fucking awesome." It was surprisingly funny.

they were making him less than a science nerd, basically a dumb kid with a schizo personality disorder. I mean this is a guy who isn't physically gifted, is pretty stupid both book dumb and street dumb and is basically low potential anyway, yet somehow we are supposed to relate to a guy that nobody except the lowest 1% are capable of relating too?


Don't get me wrong I'm liking the book, but the main character is pretty much the definitive loser. He's Bob from Becker, he's Jethro from the Beverly HillBillies, he's Booger from Growing Pains, he's Skippy from Family Ties, he's Roger from Sister Sister.

[Dr. Chaos]

and then later when he was looking at himself in the mirror, "You are fucking awesome." It was surprisingly funny.
That whole scene HAS to make it in the movie.

If theres a god, it will.

[Billy Parker]

This was the GREATEST COMIC EVER!!! Loved it.

[Dr. Chaos]

Would you say it was in fact...."Kick ass"?

[Young Avenger]

Yes, this book did Kick ass. I every liked this book. I actually enjoyed it when the kid got his ass kicked. You can't afford to have a cocky attitude when hes done nothing it earn it (that's the impression I got when he talked about walking on the edges of buliding, working out and how great it was wearing his costume under his clothing). I have the feeling that the copycat from the beginning is one of his loser friends.

[Dr. Chaos]

I have the feeling that the copycat from the beginning is one of his loser friends.
Would he really refer to one of his friends as "some armenian guy"?

That seems like it would be kind of a weird way to look back on a dead buddy.

[The Adventurer]

Wow, this was probably the worst comic I've ever read. EVER.

Deconstructional Super-Heroes taken to its most brainless end. Yet another book that talks down to its readership.

The only thing remotely redeeming about it was John Romona Jr's art

[Dr. Chaos]

Yet another book that talks down to its readership.
I didn't really feel thats what Mark was trying to do here.

I don't know, the kid had to be set up as a comic book/slight nerd character but I never really felt like the issue was saying "this is you and you are an idiot and I'm laughing at you".

To me it seemed like Millar was just trying to set him up as just an ordinary lonely kid with some stupid ideas rather than an outrageous stereotype.

[fudgekp]

I thought it was a good bpiece of work. Not Millars best stuff, but definately not his worst. I'll be following this.

[lboinyamouf4sho]

I honestly dont get Millar's popularity. Did you all just buy the book on the name itself, or the actual solicits? What drove you to purchase this?

i bought it for the art. millars ok to me, his stuff usually starts off good then fizzles imo.

about the hype, did anyone really xpect the greatest comic ever??

[Tedsallis]

I liked it. I guess if I took comics too seriously I wouldn't. Or if I had some kind of axe to grind against Millar. I wasn't exposed to any of the hype so my expectation level wasn't warped all out of proportion to what I though the book was going to be. I'm a retailer and i ordered 25 copies of this book completely on spec, not a single person on pull for it other than myself at the time. By day of release pull for it stood at only 3 but I expect to sell out of it easily and see that number go to between 15 and 20 for issue 2. Why do I think this? The book was entertaining, the art was great. It's a short run mini series, a nice light snack to carry you over through the spring. I don't feel like every comic has to change my freaking life, Not every comic has to be the next "Watchmen" or "Dark Knight", just entertain me for a few minutes. It did that. I actually thought the Paris Hilton line was a pretty astute observation that drew a pretty stark line between geek world and mundane world. Taking a character across that line is an interesting experiment. I'd actually say that this book is a bit more significant than most of the stuff I read this week simply because of it's premise.

[The Adventurer]

about the hype, did anyone really xpect the greatest comic ever??

the ironic hyperbole surrounding it does not help its case.

And that's what it is, ironic tongue-in-cheek hyperbole. Again, a way of belittling the fans, by making fun of how they buy into hype.


I don't feel like every comic has to change my freaking life, Not every comic has to be the next "Watchmen" or "Dark Knight", just entertain me for a few minutes.


But that's exactly the kind of book this series is propping itself up to be. It wasn't "fun" or "light hearted" or anything remotely intended to be entertaining for the sake of entertaining. Its social commentary targeting comic book "geeks" using super hero deconstruction as its theme.

How, I'm not some fool who props the "Super-Hero" genre up on some pedestal, believing super-heroes should all be square jawed Aryans who can do no wrong. A-La the Silver-Age people see through rose-colored-glasses. But theres making your characters and themes more human, and then theres making your characters and themes total F***tards with no clue to reality.

[Yaw]

I hate to come into a thread in favor of a new book and trash it, but really, I am with you. I hope I am wrong and it sells millions of copies and I eat my words while frantically scrabbling to find even one first printing for less than $1000 but the whole concept was just, blah.

Marvel seriously invested a lot in this title in both advertising and talent. Unfortunately Marvel still seems to equate a "mature" title to the amount of printed swearing rather than complex plot points with real adult issues. Oh sure, testicular electrocution is bold but let's set aside that and the rest of the puerile content and examine the story. Is this really anything new? Sadly, not in my estimation.

Again, let me be wrong. Let Marvel re-energize the entire comic industry with this book. However, I predict a short run without any real advancement of the genre.

Actually Marvel invested NOTHING into this book. This, like Criminal, is an Icon book and is only in existence for exclusive creators to print their own creator-owned work. The promotion and talent for this book are solely left to the creators. The creators decide to do the book and they have to promote it as well. I would say Millar and JRJR did a good job on promoting a book with no funding.

[Siddon]

I've giving this book a second issue I don't think its very good but I have to buy something on Wednesday or else I lose my discount. I've lost a third of my pull list (Cable and Deadpool, Order, Avengers:House of M, Marvel Zombies2, Y the Last Man, New X-men) this month and there is not a whole lot of decent comics on the horizen.

[Petes Pants]

I bought this for the John "Romona" art.

I loved it.

Yes, teenagers really DO curse that much.

Didn't feel like it was talking down to anyone. There is some "talking down" in this thread, however.

[Agent_Torpor]

This is the best work i've seen from Romita Jr. in quite some time. That's it for the positives.

[Billy Parker]

This is better than Watchmen.

[Saviors_Tragedy]

I thought kick-ass was a nice turn from the ordinary in comic books. I disagree with the massive swearing but I can understand where they are getting the idea that every teenager uses at least three F words in one sentence. Go on public transit and listen in on any teenager - you'll count up to 50 before you get off at your designated stop. I'm not saying ALL teens swear that much but it's not uncommon. I loved the down to earth - real life feel of it. And the opening was hillarious - honestly a good opening is what catches a lot of people. You expect it to be this comic like every other and the guy falls right into a car from the top of a building. I will say it's a kinda crude with the comments on masterbating, having your balls hooked up to an electrical device and having the poor kid being run over - but that's also what made it slightly interesting and gave it its humor. Real Life Sucks.


also this is coming from someone who finds Happy Tree Friends pissing yourself funny.

[saintsaucey]

they were making him less than a science nerd, basically a dumb kid with a schizo personality disorder. I mean this is a guy who isn't physically gifted, is pretty stupid both book dumb and street dumb and is basically low potential anyway, yet somehow we are supposed to relate to a guy that nobody except the lowest 1% are capable of relating too?


Don't get me wrong I'm liking the book, but the main character is pretty much the definitive loser. He's Bob from Becker, he's Jethro from the Beverly HillBillies, he's Booger from Growing Pains, he's Skippy from Family Ties, he's Roger from Sister Sister.

It's Boner in Growing Pains And Booger in Revenge Of The Nerds.

I loved the book. That is exactly how kids talk with the cussing and all. It's Invincible with out the powers. I'm glad the guy at my comic shop talked me into it. This totally makes up for the dreadful Fatastic Four Worlds Greatest storyline Mark is writing.

[HouseSolo]

they were making him less than a science nerd, basically a dumb kid with a schizo personality disorder. I mean this is a guy who isn't physically gifted, is pretty stupid both book dumb and street dumb and is basically low potential anyway, yet somehow we are supposed to relate to a guy that nobody except the lowest 1% are capable of relating too?
.

I still disagree. I don't think they said he was stupid, but average. He's just a kid (albeit semi-dorky) that doesn't do much of anything in school. Believe me there were plenty of them. just hang around with his friends and talk about stupid shit, that's the vibe I got from him. I guess it really depends on how you look at it.

[Shadow ES]

I honestly dont get Millar's popularity. Did you all just buy the book on the name itself, or the actual solicits? What drove you to purchase this?

I've found Millar to be pretty hit or miss. I liked the premise, and bought it to try. I liked it well enough, but it'll have to grow for me to stick with it. This issue didn't have the kind of story that can last for a year.

[ANewHope]

This was like watching South Park the movie.

It was really entertaining, but the swearing was really over the top. Especially for a comic book.

[Cash Lone]

I honestly dont get Millar's popularity. Did you all just buy the book on the name itself, or the actual solicits? What drove you to purchase this?

I purchased Kick Ass based on Millars past work on Swamp Thing, Aztek, JLA Paradise Lost and Ultimates. Also JRJR did great work on Amazing Spider-man, so I'm interested in seeing what he does with Kick Ass. I dont believe JRJR is drawing this title if he didnt believe in it.

[BeastieRunner]

This is better than Watchmen.

I went in open minded and tried the first issue. Great art and an extremely trite story line. I'll be passing. The first issue of Watchmen sucked me in way back when I first read it. This . . . the art did but not the story.

[lboinyamouf4sho]

the ironic hyperbole surrounding it does not help its case.

And that's what it is, ironic tongue-in-cheek hyperbole. Again, a way of belittling the fans, by making fun of how they buy into hype.




But that's exactly the kind of book this series is propping itself up to be. It wasn't "fun" or "light hearted" or anything remotely intended to be entertaining for the sake of entertaining. Its social commentary targeting comic book "geeks" using super hero deconstruction as its theme.



that SON OF A BITCH!!!!

really i don't care if the whole thing is just to get a kick out of making fun of the fans w/o the fans realizing it or not. i love the art and the story has my interest so far. if i enjoy it and they get their rocks off through their alterior motives i can live with that

I still disagree. I don't think they said he was stupid, but average. He's just a kid (albeit semi-dorky) that doesn't do much of anything in school. Believe me there were plenty of them. just hang around with his friends and talk about stupid shit, that's the vibe I got from him. I guess it really depends on how you look at it.

i'm with you, not all dorks/geeks/nerds ect are super smart, the kid just seems like a slacker who wastes his time on the internet, reading comics, and playing video games. you don't have to be xactly like him to relate to him either, i can relate because i was raised by a single father and wasted alot of time durring highschool too.

[Marcus_Maximus]

This was the GREATEST COMIC EVER!!! Loved it.

I have to agree. I was pleasantly surprised.

[marveljrjr]

I hate to come into a thread in favor of a new book and trash it, but really, I am with you. I hope I am wrong and it sells millions of copies and I eat my words while frantically scrabbling to find even one first printing for less than $1000 but the whole concept was just, blah.

Marvel seriously invested a lot in this title in both advertising and talent. Unfortunately Marvel still seems to equate a "mature" title to the amount of printed swearing rather than complex plot points with real adult issues. Oh sure, testicular electrocution is bold but let's set aside that and the rest of the puerile content and examine the story. Is this really anything new? Sadly, not in my estimation.

Again, let me be wrong. Let Marvel re-energize the entire comic industry with this book. However, I predict a short run without any real advancement of the genre.


Marvel did not invest a lot in this title. Mark and I did. I won't explain the business details, but suffice it to say "creator owned" is a literal term. It's a gamble for both writer and artist. Not Marvel. Money is earned IF the product sells well.
As far as content is concerned, I appreciate your opinion, so, call this a "PG-13" or "R" rated movie. You don't have to go see it.

JRjr

[marveljrjr]

Didn't really care for it, and it had the bad luck of coming out the same week as Jeff Smith's new book, RASL, (which had WAY less cussing, and way worse art, and yet, I still ended up buying it after reading it in the store).

speaking of the art, while lovely, JR's "black kids" look strikingly like they were using John Byrne's models. I would have sworn Byrne drew those graffitti artists. . .


...are their any graffitti artists in Canada? It's the cleanest country in North America!!
I don't think JB has ever seen my old neighborhood, or it's populace:-)

JR

[Excelsior]

yeah I was distubed by the wanton attack of graffiti kids. And its similiar deptiction in Wanted, where Wesley decided to test his metal against a gang of black youths in that book too. Im sensing a pattern here. I hope Millar proves me wrong.

[Your Imaginary Pal]

Not a bad read, I'd like to see where it goes.
JRJR is on form here. Janson on inks really works with this book. It even looks like it's hand colored in water color. SOunds like my friends in high school, only we were creating the characters, not trying to live them out. Living out a fantasy in the "real world" is a pretty good premise. I just expected the guy to be a more imposing figure. Didn't expect a high school kid at all. But I guess this will be a story about what can be accomplished through will alone.
I think this will turn out to be a Young John McClane in tights story.
And wh all know not only is McClane a Die Hard guy, he's also pretty Kick Ass.

[Excelsior]

Well, the owner of my LCS just told me they have sold out of Kick-Ass, and his other locations have as well.

[BruceLeeroy]

Man, that was a great first issue. It was almost exactly like the first issue of Daredevil: Man Without Fear JRJr did awhile back.

[Mideon]

This book reminds me of All-Star Batman and Robin, except without Batman and with swearing. I think it's awesome.

[GRANT!]

I didn't really feel thats what Mark was trying to do here.

I don't know, the kid had to be set up as a comic book/slight nerd character but I never really felt like the issue was saying "this is you and you are an idiot and I'm laughing at you".

Yeah I never got that feeling either. Then again I don't see the need to personalize every comic I read either. And I was a geeky loner kid in high school too.

It was a fun enough read. The idea isn't that revolutionary but I thought the execution was pretty sadistically hilarious. And the art was fantastic. I'll stick with this one.

[Crimson]

The kid wasn't even a geeky loner... he had a small group of close friends. Sure, he's not popular but the majority of people in high school are people sitting on the sidelines with a group of good friends.

I really liked this issue and can't wait for the next issue.

The only thing that grated on me was the use of teenagers calling each other names every time they spoke to each other. I don't know why writers feel the need to overuse that, it happens but no where near as much as they portray it. After a couple of uses it just sounds annoying.

[HotRod_Tim]

Kick-Ass did exactly what it said it'd do...kick ass. Dave's a pretty cool character, although he could definitely use a girlfriend. haha.

[Taskmaster]

I really want this book to fail and i'm not exactly sure why, maybe it's the fact that the story idea just seems like it's been done better in the past or maybe just the lame title and advertising campaign, yeah so i'm not going to be picking this up

Don't get me wrong I loved Wanted and I love JRjr, but this just doesn't seem to be my cup of tea so after looking through it in the store I just dropped in here to see what others thought

[The Confessor]

Well, I really liked this book...a lot! I can't wait for the next issue. I'd heard a bit of a buzz on the net about this book but was pretty clueless as to what it was all about until the guy at my LCS recommended it to me. It looked interesting, plus I like both Millar and JR Jr. so I took a punt on it and I wasn't disappointed.

I thought this comic was actually pretty funny too...like, it actually made chuckle out loud while I was reading it. I know what some of the posters on this thread mean about the over-the-top swearing but on the other hand, it was pretty funny. Especially when the superhero guy in the opening pages was plunging to his death...

"Wings to manual"
"I said wings to manual"
"FUCK!!" :D

I'm honestly surprised that there are so many people on this thread who didn't like the book. Maybe it was a tad over-hyped but since I had stayed away from most of that stuff, I guess I came to the book without any expectations.

By the way, did anyone else notice that when Dave was having his testicles electrocuted he pissed himself? I love little details like that in comic art.

[C.O. Jones]

People said the exact same negative stuff here about 'Kick-Ass' as they did about the 'Heroes' debut episode. Yet, as the weeks and months went by, those same folks were worshipping the ground Tim Kring peed on.


I heard about it a few weeks ago but had forgotten about it. I saw it today at my lcs right when I was walking out and decided to grab it---only 4 copies were left. Once I'd gotten home and read it, I immediately called the guy back at the shop to add it to my pull list. I'm so glad I snapped.


How exactly is his surname pronounced? Because there are at least 2 ways you can go with it...

Who are 'the others' he referenced? Will they give him the powers he'll have when we catch up with him in the present? Maybe it'll be set up like 'Now And Again' was...?

[mlcm]

JRjr drew the shit out of this book. That's for sure. But my problem is that if Dave (the main character) admits he's not unique or special or anything, why should I care? I guess my problem with the story is that it's supposed to be about an average guy. But I read comics to avoid average guys. I'll pick up issue 2 cause I loves me some JRjr.

[Pango]

I have to agree with all the criticism, yet it didn't really stop me from finding the idea and story enjoyable.

I like the bit, "you have to remember this was long before the others showed up", it suggests he eventually succeeds in being a super hero and other people do to. Could get very interesting.

[40footwolf]

Pretty self-explanatory, but yeah. I can't figure out if it's a limited series or ongoing? So... does anyone know?

[littlemaths]

It's a mini. I think it's 6 issues, but I'm not 100% sure about that.

[aut0matic]

millar says he already has ideas for his 3rd story arc, i'd say it's an ongoing

[HouseSolo]

Ya, it's definitely an on-going, and thank God for that.

[Frank]

While not stellar, it was pretty good. The premise and the artwork is so good that it's hard not to be taken by the energy so i'll be there for next issue.

I had three problems

1. I don't think any kids would tell to his friends that he wants to be a super-hero. He would probably don't want to jinx it. Secondly he would probably keep his secret for a while until he tell maybe one close friend.

2. Goo Goo Dolls? I liked him until he said he liked that crappy group. It's like liking Creed and Nickelback. yuck!

3. It would have been more effective at the end before he gets hit by the car had it been more of a surprise. And there wouldn't have been any inner monologue "I don't blame them". And the other mistake was showing the kid in a hospital room next issue. Sometime being too expositive and talky may ruins moments. Just have the kid being hit by the car. Issue ends. No previews of next issue. So the reader is in shock the lead character pretty much died at the end of the issue. And it's a brilliant way to get the point across that being a super-hero in real life is harder than in funny books. But the way Millar end the book ended of on a lighter note than it needed to be.

[PaidHero]

I just picked up a copy of "Kick-Ass" and I absoluetly loved it. If you haven't read it. It's about some high school nobody, less than average joe who wants to become a super hero like the ones he reads in his comic books. He wonders about why hasn't anyone ever try it before. So he orders a wet suit costume from the internet and decides to patrol his city. Though he learns the hard way that its not as easy as it looks and ends up stabbed and run over in the middle of the street.

Just wondered what you guys thought of the book. Hate it or love it.

I'm not sure where else I could of posted this thread so I just figured Marvel Universe would be best. It is made by Marvel Icon I think.

[HouseSolo]

It's nice to see a big name writer getting to do something he wants to do without it having to be weighed down with this tie-in or that cross over. I miss thedays when you could pick up a book and get a story, and not have to read 15 other books to know what's going on.

[PaidHero]

I agree and its written wonderfully.

[Netley]

Didn't think I was going to like it (Millar is hit-or-miss with me) but I really did!!! Is it an ongoing or a monthly? It seems like Marvel may have kept that fact vague in attempt to wait for fan reaction.

[PaidHero]

Whats the differnce between an Ongoing and a Monthly. (not being a smartass) I'd like it to be an ongoing, which I think it is.

[Netley]

Whats the differnce between an Ongoing and a Monthly. (not being a smartass) I'd like it to be an ongoing, which I think it is.

Haha my bad, I meant "is it an ongoing or a miniseries?" Hopefully it's monthly no matter what (and with JR Jr. as artist, I don't see it falling behind).

[TotalWorldDomination]

loved it a great deal, but like many I am confused as to it's status (Ongoing/Mini/Maxi/Mini-but-will-be-extended/ect, ect).

[PaidHero]

He mentions in the book as he is slowly bleeding to death "This is before the Others." Which means there are going to be more maniacs to join his crusade against crimes, I'm excited for that and when he wakes up in the hospital.

[hierro_boshid0]

jesus f$#%in christ I completely missed this, was it good? anyone got pictures of the main character?

[Netley]

jesus f$#%in christ I completely missed this, was it good? anyone got pictures of the main character?

This sounds weird, but you should read the first issue before seeing the main character.

[hierro_boshid0]

This sounds weird, but you should read the first issue before seeing the main character.

Why? I'm totally spoiler-proof. I mean I can see the main character before reading a single issue, and I'd feel ok. I wouldn't feel spoiled.

[Netley]

Why? I'm totally spoiler-proof. I mean I can see the main character before reading a single issue, and I'd feel ok. I wouldn't feel spoiled.

It's just a two page gag kinda, really, not a big deal. I thought it was well done for what it is, but it doesn't really have anything to do with the plot.

I think I just made this whole thing unnecessarily confusing, so in hindsight, go ahead and google him or something and forget I said anything haha

I do recommend the book, though.

[The Adventurer]

Would you say it was in fact...."Kick ass"?

They should have called it "Weak Sauce"

[hierro_boshid0]

lol You did confuse me, but its alright. Ill google it and see what I can find.

[Lombardo!]

pretty positive it's an ongoing...at least until Millar wants to put it to pasture, which probably won't be after #30 maximum.

can't wait for the 'Others', either. as long as they're *realistic*

[Kaos]

yep he kept saying "I'm just like everyone else" and yet he was pretty much the cardboard cutout of a geek.

I liked the first issue even if it moved a little too slow for me, as it stands there is no telling how successful this kid was or not (talking about a guy imitating him, but how can you believe this kid when he seems to think prepping for being a superhero involved walking on the edge of a ledge and doing some curls.)

It's apparent that at some point in time he is successful, but to what degree? Still I liked the book even with the overhype. Agree about the cussing, a tad more than most people would say in real life, I really wish writers would understand that the vast majority of people don't cuss all the time.


Nah...people swear a helluva lot.hell I would be now, but I'm censoring cos I swear you get banned for cussin too much.

personally I liked the book, thought it was pretty joke. I also can't see how the hell this dude can be succesful after getting messed up so hard.

[Tedsallis]

He mentions in the book as he is slowly bleeding to death "This is before the Others." Which means there are going to be more maniacs to join his crusade against crimes, I'm excited for that and when he wakes up in the hospital.


http://www.fox6.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=acf3e6a8-0f8d-484d-8b19-1a3804e8adaf&rss=tick


Get ready. This comic could get a LOT higher profile if the media ever realizes it exists.....

[jim1175]

Didn't see a thread on this one.

Is anyone reading Kick Ass by Icon (Marvel)? Have to say after reading the first issue I am impressed, looks like it going to be a very good series, unusual, interesting, and very grounded.

Is this being written as a mini or on going? It has the feel of a mini but it's not stated anywhere.

Anyone else out there reading this one? I'm looking forward to the next installment.

[PastePotPete]

We've only had one issue, but yeah, I'm putting it in my pull-list.

The whole thing really did ring true to me as 'taking place in our world' and the protagonist reminds me of a friend of mine.

Millar is always a risk for me. I disliked Civil War and thought Wanted was insulting. Enemy of the State was tight, though.

This is a different tone for him, I'd say. Yeah, I'm very interested in where he's going with Kick-ass.

[idolone]

Yeah, I added it to my pull list too. The first issue was great, and I really want to see where it's going. I remember reading somewhere that it was originally suposed to be a mini, but they are turning it into an ongoing. I guess we'll have to see.

[DeREk FrEEsT]

New issue came in yesterday!!!


"There's a guy dressed up like a super hero fighting Puerto Ricans it's fucking awesome!" Hahahahahahahahahahaha

[DeREk FrEEsT]

It's apparent that at some point in time he is successful, but to what degree? Still I liked the book even with the overhype. Agree about the cussing, a tad more than most people would say in real life, I really wish writers would understand that the vast majority of people don't cuss all the time.


I agree with you there but I think Millar was giving the realistic theme in location (it takes place in New York right) and you gotta admit in the east coast they do swear alot more than people would think.

If the location was a different area than I would kind of think the swearing was a bit over expressed.

[Arc]

After the release of the second issue, I had enough material to create a fan trailer over a lazy Sunday afternoon.

Revver:
http://revver.com/video/795195/kick-ass-comic-trailer/

Direct Download (10MB .wmv):
http://www.sendspace.com/file/az1u9r

[da gooch]

read the first two issues, had me rolling on the floor pissing my pants with laoughter, Oh how it brings joy to a you g gooch's heart.

[Sam T.]

I thumbed thru it at a shop. Great art, but i'm not down with all the cussing in the book.

[hungry4nandez]

Picked up both issues a couple of days ago and I think it's...kick ass!

I think it was an interesting look into the mind of a, not necessarily deranged, but delusional mind using comic books and a need for justice as reasoning behind what appears to be his desire to invididualize himself from a "normal" society. I think it speaks about what a persons role is in todays world.

Examine his statements about how he feels he is perceived by his peers as being middle of the road and how he really had no definable purpose for vigilante behaviour. His reference to the need or "Beast" eludes to a deviant psychological construction in his mind which he does recognize as deluded behaviour, justified by his rationalizing for societies need for a superhero.

All in all an interesting read. The art is John Romita Jr. in good form with interesting internal dialogue provided by Mark Millar and full of enough street lingo and geek knowledge without seeming to cliche. A good read.

[PastePotPete]

The reviewer for CBR and the reviewer over at Newsarama absolutely hated the second issue of Kick-Ass. They did not mince words.

Problems they had with it:
SPOILERS FOR THE SERIES IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT

1) Dave hides his costume after getting horribly beaten up in issue 1. He's beaten so badly they argue this should not have been possible.

2) Dave attacks a group of thugs right after recovering from his first fight and this time he 'wins,' delivering a fierce beating to all of them. They argue a person recovering from those injuries should not have been able to do that.

They had other complaints but they loved JR Jr's art. These reviewers really blasted this comic with two very negative reviews.

I'd like to respond to their nitpicks. This is my perspective as a reader, not a reviewer...

1) Meh. We don't even know the whole story. Dave wakes up naked. Nobody sees him in the costume. He assumes he stashed it somewhere and can't remember. Maybe there's more to it. If not, it's story short-hand that doesn't really bother me. The book does not lose the realistic feel just because he was able to get out of his super-civvies before the cops came. Hell, maybe the thugs that beat him up stole his suit. Who cares?

2) The timeline is unclear here. We don't know for sure how long after he recovers he runs out to try out superheroing again. I felt within the context of the story it worked. I felt like he was going out almost a year after the beating, after returning to school and completing his physical therapy. Also, he had the jump on those guys. They weren't expecting him. And I felt the book gave a sense of Dave venting his rage from the first fight that he lost.

I also like that he went through all that guilt and pain and just went out and did it again. That's the way real people work. They're often unpredictable and can't even justify their actions to themselves.

I'm no Millar acolyte. I usually dislike his stuff, to be honest. But I'm digging Kick-ass. Get off your high horse reviewers!

[SuperSticky409]

This is a really good series and a really unique idea. I'm always hoping that kid just kicks all their asses, but it keeps to its realistic form.

[jim1175]

The reviewer for CBR and the reviewer over at Newsarama absolutely hated the second issue of Kick-Ass. They did not mince words.

Problems they had with it:
SPOILERS FOR THE SERIES IF YOU HAVEN'T READ IT

1) Dave hides his costume after getting horribly beaten up in issue 1. He's beaten so badly they argue this should not have been possible.

2) Dave attacks a group of thugs right after recovering from his first fight and this time he 'wins,' delivering a fierce beating to all of them. They argue a person recovering from those injuries should not have been able to do that.

They had other complaints but they loved JR Jr's art. These reviewers really blasted this comic with two very negative reviews.

I'd like to respond to their nitpicks. This is my perspective as a reader, not a reviewer...

1) Meh. We don't even know the whole story. Dave wakes up naked. Nobody sees him in the costume. He assumes he stashed it somewhere and can't remember. Maybe there's more to it. If not, it's story short-hand that doesn't really bother me. The book does not lose the realistic feel just because he was able to get out of his super-civvies before the cops came. Hell, maybe the thugs that beat him up stole his suit. Who cares?

2) The timeline is unclear here. We don't know for sure how long after he recovers he runs out to try out superheroing again. I felt within the context of the story it worked. I felt like he was going out almost a year after the beating, after returning to school and completing his physical therapy. Also, he had the jump on those guys. They weren't expecting him. And I felt the book gave a sense of Dave venting his rage from the first fight that he lost.

I also like that he went through all that guilt and pain and just went out and did it again. That's the way real people work. They're often unpredictable and can't even justify their actions to themselves.

I'm no Millar acolyte. I usually dislike his stuff, to be honest. But I'm digging Kick-ass. Get off your high horse reviewers!

I loved the issue and I love the series thus far... However take a look at the book alittle closer and you will see his costume stuffed under a car as he is lying naked in the street suggesting that he might have done it himself - who would take his costume and then leave it at the scene?

[4thHorseman]

I loved the issue and I love the series thus far... However take a look at the book alittle closer and you will see his costume stuffed under a car as he is lying naked in the street suggesting that he might have done it himself - who would take his costume and then leave it at the scene?

With his injuries, I don't think he would even have the strength or awareness to take off his clothes. And if he did, why not go get help too instead of lying in the street bloody in pretty much the same position he was in after he got hit?

[jim1175]

With his injuries, I don't think he would even have the strength or awareness to take off his clothes. And if he did, why not go get help too instead of lying in the street bloody in pretty much the same position he was in after he got hit?

I'm not really arguing that point... I agree, but I was rebutting the statement that the costume was removed or stolen by someone else or that its whereabouts were unknown, which you can see, is not the case by looking at the panel.

The only thing that I can say might lend evidence to the statement that David removed the costume himself is that despite injury it was forefront in his mind that he not be caught wearing it; possibly acting on adrenaline driven instinct an obsessive thought could be acted upon even inspite of serious injuries, however I agree it is not likely. As for his position in the middle of the street being the one he was in when struck by the car... It does look the same, but we know that it really can't be because he was clothed at that point, so there obviously was some movement.

[PastePotPete]

I'm not really arguing that point... I agree, but I was rebutting the statement that the costume was removed or stolen by someone else or that its whereabouts were unknown, which you can see, is not the case by looking at the panel.

The only thing that I can say might lend evidence to the statement that David removed the costume himself is that despite injury it was forefront in his mind that he not be caught wearing it; possibly acting on adrenaline driven instinct an obsessive thought could be acted upon even inspite of serious injuries, however I agree it is not likely. As for his position in the middle of the street being the one he was in when struck by the car... It does look the same, but we know that it really can't be because he was clothed at that point, so there obviously was some movement.

Looking at the book again, I can see you're right. It looks like Dave stashed the costume.

Do you agree with the reviewers? Does the fact that Dave stashed the costume ruin the realism of the book for you? To me, that's very nitpicky.

I like your explanation that Dave was acting on adrenaline. That would definitely win you a No-Prize. Do they give No-Prizes for Icon books?

[Tobias Drake]

I think he had just enough strength to remove the costume but not enough to really get anywhere. He's lying half-dead in the streets, bloodied to hell. Someone IS going to see him and call for help. That's a given. So with what's left of his strength, there are two options: vainly try to find someone to help him who will probably see him anyway, given he's not strong enough to get far, or struggle desperately to remove the costume and stash it. The first requires him to get up and move. The second just requires him to squirm.

[puke17]

If you look at issue 1 there is a page where he is on the hood of the car, well the page before that 3rd panel down you can see that cars on both sides of the road are parked facing the same direction. Does this mean it is a 1 way road? Does that mean the ladies are going the wrong way on a 1 way road?

Anyway in issue 2 when you see his cloths under the car you can see that the cars parked on the sides are parked facing different directions. I think there is an inconstancy in Romita Jr. amazing art.

But the comic is still amazing none the less:smile:

[StoneGold]

With his injuries, I don't think he would even have the strength or awareness to take off his clothes. And if he did, why not go get help too instead of lying in the street bloody in pretty much the same position he was in after he got hit?

Because that's part of his psychosis. Protect the secret identity above all!!!

[PastePotPete]

The A$$holes at Aint It Cool News also gave Kick-ass #2 a weak-ass review.

The reviewer brings up the point that Millar is once again showing contempt for the comic book medium. For example (SPOILERS) when Dave burns all his comics and his narration boxes read - paraphrased - "screw these stupid books, screw these dumb characters..."

I know Millar has shown contempt for The Superhero Comic in the past. I have been turned off by it. I particularly hate the meta-textual ending of Wanted. Not because it hits too close to home, but because I feel like if Millar hates superhero comics so much, why is he writing them?? He's the one who should feel stupid. He should be turning his satiric eye on himself instead of the fans.

I digress. I guess I'm asking if anybody feels Millar's comic book hatred is showing in Kick-Ass, cuz so far, I don't see it. In fact, I feel like this is a good story for him to work out some of those feelings in an interesting way. See, in this story, I feel Dave's burning of his own books is completely justified. And then later we see he's so hooked that he goes out to play superhero again.

To me, this isn't superhero hatred. It's a writer trying to analyze the superhero obsession. Instead of mocking that obsession, he's trying to understand it. I think it makes for a good story.

[jim1175]

Looking at the book again, I can see you're right. It looks like Dave stashed the costume.

Do you agree with the reviewers? Does the fact that Dave stashed the costume ruin the realism of the book for you? To me, that's very nitpicky.

I like your explanation that Dave was acting on adrenaline. That would definitely win you a No-Prize. Do they give No-Prizes for Icon books?

I haven't seen a No-Prize awarded in quite some time, but I appreciate your endorsement.

To answer your question; No it does not ruin the realism of the book for me, but rather it increases the mystery and intrigue because we didn't actually see how his costume came off (it happened off panel). I merely suggested one possibility to explain it, however there could be other explanations - For example, our hero mentions "others" in his reflection, suggesting that there will be other costumed heroes in the future. Perhaps one of the "others" that is not ready to don the costume quite yet himself, yet suffers from "superhero syndrome" like our hero, removes David's costume before the ambulance arrives so as to protect his secret identity.... In fact we don't know who notified the EMS, could be this same person.

I haven't been able to find the reviews that you referenced; could you give us a link? Thanks!

[jim1175]

The A$$holes at Aint It Cool News also gave Kick-ass #2 a weak-ass review.

The reviewer brings up the point that Millar is once again showing contempt for the comic book medium. For example (SPOILERS) when Dave burns all his comics and his narration boxes read - paraphrased - "screw these stupid books, screw these dumb characters..."

I know Millar has shown contempt for The Superhero Comic in the past. I have been turned off by it. I particularly hate the meta-textual ending of Wanted. Not because it hits too close to home, but because I feel like if Millar hates superhero comics so much, why is he writing them?? He's the one who should feel stupid. He should be turning his satiric eye on himself instead of the fans.

I digress. I guess I'm asking if anybody feels Millar's comic book hatred is showing in Kick-Ass, cuz so far, I don't see it. In fact, I feel like this is a good story for him to work out some of those feelings in an interesting way. See, in this story, I feel Dave's burning of his own books is completely justified. And then later we see he's so hooked that he goes out to play superhero again.

To me, this isn't superhero hatred. It's a writer trying to analyze the superhero obsession. Instead of mocking that obsession, he's trying to understand it. I think it makes for a good story.

I'm not getting the anti-fanboy vibe at all from this book myself, and keep in mind that the artist; John Romita Jr. is very pro-hero himself, so between the two extremes tempering each other this book should stay down the middle, keeping its realistic quality (we hope).

[Excelsior]

A person in shock has been known to walk for block with fractured legs, broken ribs and a ruptured spleen. Yes I have seen this.

Never underestimate the determination of the human spirit.

[jim1175]

A person in shock has been known to walk for block with fractured legs, broken ribs and a ruptured spleen. Yes I have seen this.

Never underestimate the determination of the human spirit.


This is very true

[Chintzy Beatnik]

I read both issues and absolutely loved them. This one's added to my pull list.

[marveljrjr]

If you look at issue 1 there is a page where he is on the hood of the car, well the page before that 3rd panel down you can see that cars on both sides of the road are parked facing the same direction. Does this mean it is a 1 way road? Does that mean the ladies are going the wrong way on a 1 way road?

Anyway in issue 2 when you see his cloths under the car you can see that the cars parked on the sides are parked facing different directions. I think there is an inconstancy in Romita Jr. amazing art.

But the comic is still amazing none the less:smile:

I am in awe. I am impressed!
I do theses things sometimes and don't catch them until it's too late! Have you ever considered editorial work? Hah! I think it's great! I remember seeing that very mistake, or mistakes, I should say, and wondered if it would get noticed. Fantastic, good job!
No prize award nominee!

humbled JRjr

[static]

so far so good

[jim1175]

I am in awe. I am impressed!
I do theses things sometimes and don't catch them until it's too late! Have you ever considered editorial work? Hah! I think it's great! I remember seeing that very mistake, or mistakes, I should say, and wondered if it would get noticed. Fantastic, good job!
No prize award nominee!

humbled JRjr

Consistently throughout your career (even through the 90's), regardless of the trends you have been one of the few artists to actually put the time into creating the backgrounds of the panels. Attention to details like that have made your art stand out. Kick Ass is great so far both in art and prose, therefore I thing we can overlook this little blunder.