By Dante' Maddox

Based only on the cover Kick-Ass is a comic that stands out at most shops. The subtitle, “The Greatest Superhero Book of All Time is Finally Here!” to capture the attention of readers doesn’t hurt either.

Despite the bold statement, Kick-Ass stands up as a serious contender for first issue of the year as I was blown away by the offering that Mark Millar and John Romita Jr. provided. The book poses a question to its readers, “How come no one has ever tried to be a superhero?” From there they set out to answer the question by focusing on our main character Dave Lizewski.

Dave Lizewski and his origin achieve originality where I thought there was none. Sure he’s technically a Batman type, but in all the ways that count he’s completely brand new, plus the things that happen to him in just the first issue completely cements the reader into this particular comic book universe, one that is decidedly not like those of Marvel and DC. Don’t get me wrong this isn’t a book that’s different because of its graphic nature or language, but because the story uses those elements to tell a different kind of tale. Most ‘mature’ comics are pretty much the same as regular comics except for cursing and over the top violence. Kick-Ass takes that a step further by presenting a story the probably couldn’t be told in any other format.

Mark Millar presents us with a character that is unique in a lot of ways, he also allows for Dave to talk to the reader directly which really adds to the dialogue in the story. As a high school kid there is the obligatory relation to Peter Parker, but it’s brief and funny in context. Dave Lizewski is a comic book reader not unlike ones you have met in shops before. I think that is where the appeal will lie in this series. Dave Lizewski will remind you of you in a lot of ways. If you’re in to comics then this character might help to broaden your interest, or at least be the subject of lots of great comic conversations at your local shop.

Great art, inventive story telling, and a very unique plot make this a must read book for any fan. If you liked the Watchmen, then you’ll find the surroundings strangely familiar but not like you’ve read this before. The tone and pacing of the story made me think of the narrative style of the Alan Moore epic from the 80’s. Don’t let that remark discourage you though, this isn’t a retread so far. Based on how the first issue begins and ends (you know I won’t ruin it here) the book can go anywhere from here. Do yourself a favor and check this title out.

Writer: Mark Millar
Pencils: John Romita Jr.
Publisher: Icon/Marvel
Cover Price: $2.99

CraveOnline Rating: 10 out of 10