Kick-Ass

Do you really need superpowers to be a superhero? Dave Lizewski (Aaron Johnson) doesn't think so. This geeky teen relies on nothing more than his own determination and a makeshift costume when he decides to reinvent himself as Kick-Ass, but he quickly discovers that reality is a lot tougher on masked avengers than the comic books suggest.

The gleefully entertaining Kick-Ass doesn't hold back when it comes to bloody action, but the film's success is primarily down to its witty, cleverly constructed screenplay, and Matthew Vaughn's energetic direction, which is particularly impressive in the skilfully staged set-pieces. Perhaps the only letdown is the central character, who is far too passive a protagonist for an audience to really care about, but the supporting cast offers ample compensation. Mark Strong and Nicolas Cage (channelling Adam West) both turn in fine performances, while young Chloe Moretz delivers a sensational, star-making turn as the unforgettable Hit-Girl. The film may be titled Kick-Ass, but this is Hit-Girl's movie all the way.