Review: 'Kick-Ass' Kicks in 4K

What if superheroes were real?

It's the question answered in director Matthew Vaughn's motion picture adaptation of "Kick Ass," based on the graphic novel series by Mark Millar and the legendary John S. Romita Jr., now available in remarkable 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and Digital Combo Pack and exclusively collectible Steelbook package. All for one low kiss-ass price! The film (just like the book that it's based on) answers the question: What if superheroes were real?

Comic book writer Mark Millar was inspired by his own fascination with these larger-than-life characters and always dared to wonder why, in a world that is full of so much crime and strife, more self-described "super-heroes" hadn't emerged. The answer is simple, and one that is answered by the film's group of adolescent fanboys: Because if superheroes were real, they would most likely get their butts handed to them. Although it's a viscerally violent tale, "Kick-Ass" is high action and full of humor – and not just for the comic-con convention audience.

Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson ("Avengers: Age of Ultron") the actor convincingly suits up as the titular crime fighter and does indeed get his butt handed to him on his first outing as a vigilante. But social media takes notice, and before long Kick-Ass is a genuine phenomenon! Dave Lizewski may just be another mild-mannered high schooler, but by night he trolls the streets – saving lost cats and landing himself in the most unfortunate circumstances. Kick-Ass is a hit with the ladies, and Dave wiggles his way into the affections of Katie (Lyndsy Fonseca).

While trying his best to intimidate a drug kingpin who has been targeting Katie, Kick-Ass gets in over his head and draws the fire of a pair of "real" vigilantes played by Nicolas Cage and Chlo� Grace Moretz. Big Daddy and his fierce side-kick Hit-Girl take no prisoners and are on a mission to bring down a merciless drug cartel heading by Frank D'Amico (Mark Strong). It's not long before it's all-out war, and comic book violence becomes all-too-deadly real and full of consequences! "Kick-Ass" has heart and humor, and doesn't shy away from violence and gore. It's every fanboy's dream and then some, and the film has never looked more stunning than it does now in 4K!

Along with the 4K Ultra HD presentation of the film, the disc also commentary by the film's director Matthew Vaughn, and additional bonus features that track the film from its comic book origins to the big screen. "A New Kind of Superhero" goes on set and behind the scenes; "It's On! The Comic Book Origin of Kick-Ass" reveals the classic inspirations that gave Mark Miller the incentive to put the character on the page and the visuals from John S. Romita Jr. that realized the hero. The Blu-ray also includes a gallery and an additional marketing archive. The SteelBook limited edition packaging makes it an instant collector's dream!

"Kick-Ass" is available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and Digital Combo Pack.