Jeff Wadlow's 'Kick-Ass 2' is a shallow sequel. It's one of those follow-ups that doesn't understand what made the original film work. Becoming an occasionally enjoyable knock-off while Matthew Vaughn's 'Kick-Ass' was an absurdly entertaining mix of violence and comedy. On top of that, this sequel is so mean spirited it makes you feel downright dirty.
All the big elements are back. Aaron Taylor-Johnson returns as the geeky superhero Kick-Ass. Chloë Moretz reignites controversy as Hit Girl. And Christoper Mintz-Plasse takes over from Mark Strong as the film's main baddie. The biggest new name must be Jim Carrey. Who plays a religious nutcase known as Colonel Stars & Stripes. Carrey is the one of the film's sole highlights.
Much like the original there's lots of swearing and cussing. Of course there's also an unhealthy amount of violence, but if you're going to see a movie called 'Kick-Ass 2' you can't really complain about that. You can complain about the overall quality. This flick feels like it should've gone straight to DVD. It's simply doesn't operate on the same level as Vaughn's original.
Much like the original there's lots of swearing and cussing. Of course there's also an unhealthy amount of violence, but if you're going to see a movie called 'Kick-Ass 2' you can't really complain about that. You can complain about the overall quality. This flick feels like it should've gone straight to DVD. It's simply doesn't operate on the same level as Vaughn's original.
I'm not arguing that the first 'Kick-Ass' was some kind of masterpiece. However it was funny, well-paced and action packed. It had a huge amount of wit and (semi-)intelligence. All of which 'Kick-Ass 2' isn't able to match. The first film had Nicholas Cage in a role that didn't feel like stunt casting. Cage was a perfect fit for an insane superhero. Here we get Jim Carry, whose greatness is wasted on a bit part. It's just a missed opportunity.
The only real exception to the rule is Chloë Moretz. Who jumps at the chance to explore Hit Girl's twisted psyche. Along with Moretz we discover that the apple didn't fall from the tree. Hit Girl (aka Mindy) is just as bat-shit insane as her old man. Stubbornly believing in the virtues of vigilantism even though everything that happens to her and her loved ones should make her think twice.
So while 'Kick-Ass' seemed aware of its skewed morality, this sequel isn't. In fact, the filmmakers seem to revel in being as crass and violent as possible. There's a handful of moments that echo the original's sense of fun but those aren't enough for 'Kick-Ass 2' to redeem itself. As it stands, this sequel is barely worth your time. You're better off watching Matthew Vaughn's original again instead.
