Latest news with #Kick-Ass
Wales Online
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Superman director's forgotten film fans called 'best zombie movie ever'
Superman director's forgotten film fans called 'best zombie movie ever' A look at his lesser known films including Battle Royale with adults The DC cinematic universe is set for a reboot as Superman soars back onto the big screen, this time under the direction of filmmaker James Gunn. Gunn and his new studio are aiming to emulate at least some of the success he experienced while working on Marvel projects. However, Gunn's early filmography provides ample evidence as to why he's the right choice for the job. Throughout his career, Gunn has demonstrated an ability to effortlessly merge genres, from horror to sci-fi and action adventures, always with a sharp focus on visuals and emotionally charged musical moments. While it remains to be seen where Superman and Gunn's future DC titles will rank among his other works, here's a brief rundown of his early films as writer, director or both. Super Super was shut out by Kick-Ass the year it was released (Image: IFC ) Super featured Rain Wilson, fresh off his fame from The Office, as an average bloke who's had a less than stellar life. He decides to reinvent himself as a superhero and tackle crime when his wife, a recovering addict, leaves him for another man, reports the Mirror. That other man happens to be a drug-dealing Kevin Bacon, complete with a gang of henchmen. Crimson Bolt, lacking any actual superhuman abilities, resorts to brutal violence in his quest to rescue his wife from the clutches of a drug dealer. Article continues below While promoting Superman, Gunn stated that he didn't believe he'd ever made a superhero film before. While some might argue that Super fits the bill, the protagonist doesn't possess any real superpowers. The film is now regarded as a dark cult classic, despite having received mixed reviews when it first came out. It graced some cinema screens in 2010 but was somewhat overshadowed by Kick-Ass, which was released the same year and shared a similar theme of deconstructing the comic book superhero trope. A fan commented: "I love how this movie is messed up and it's exactly why I like it. it's definitely not for everyone. The main characters are sadistic and delusional. While the movie challenges the moral stuff in superhero genre by putting it into the real world context in a sick, disturbing manner, still doesn't take itself too seriously." Super can be rented on Apple TV and Amazon Video. The Belko Experiment The Belko Experiment is one of Gunn's lesser known films (Image: Orion ) In 2017, Gunn wrote the screenplay for The Belko Experiment during a break from his Marvel commitments. The film aligns with the darker, more violent style of his earlier works. The plot revolves around eighty Americans trapped in their corporate office as part of a lethal experiment where an unseen voice commands them to kill each other to survive. A viewer remarked: "Underrated film, this idea has been done before but The Belko Experiment executes the movie better than its predecessors in my opinion. Reminds me of Battle Royale but in an office setting with adults." The Belko Experiment is available for streaming on Prime Video. Dawn of the Dead Fans hail it as one of the best zombie movies (Image: Universal ) Another entry from Gunn's earlier work saw him take on screenwriting duties before eventually stepping behind the camera as director. Following his script work on the live-action Scooby-Doo adaptation (yes, that actually happened), Gunn was commissioned to write the screenplay for a reimagining of a zombie horror classic. Fascinatingly, whilst Gunn penned the 2004 version, it was Zack Snyder - the very filmmaker he would later succeed as the creative figurehead for DC's film universe - who helmed the project. The plot mirrors that of the original, following survivors of an outbreak that transforms the infected into cannibalistic zombies as they seek sanctuary in a shopping centre. Beyond confronting the walking dead, the group must also contend with internal conflicts. This updated version introduced swifter, more ferocious zombies. One enthusiast described it as an 'instant classic' whilst another declared: "24 years later, still no other film can top this masterpiece. The best zombie film ever created in my opinion." Dawn of the Dead is streaming on Netflix soon. Guardians of the Galaxy The first Guardians is Gunn's highest rated feature film Numerous comic book enthusiasts and cinema-goers could hardly be blamed for being puzzled when it was revealed this relatively unknown group of characters would receive their own blockbuster. Let alone that Gunn would be the one to bring it to life. However, the filmmaker stunned both audiences and reviewers with his vibrant and humorous cosmic escapade. This picture continues to be Gunn's most acclaimed feature on Rotten Tomatoes, boasting a 92% rating despite spawning two follow-ups. Article continues below The Guardians of the Galaxy might have shed their obscurity, but it's important to recall that even among ardent fans, they weren't always household names. Viewing this film, it's completely understandable why James Gunn was chosen to take on Superman and his Justice League comrades. A fan expressed their admiration by saying: "Guardians of the Galaxy is pure Marvel magic packed with humour, heart, stunning visuals, and a killer soundtrack. Every time I rewatch it, my mood instantly lifts. James Gunn turned this into a musical-action masterpiece." Guardians of the Galaxy is streaming on Disney+.
Daily Mirror
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
James Gunn films ranked from hidden gem to 'action masterpiece'
The filmmaker has written and directed some huge hits The DC cinematic universe restarts in earnest as Superman flies into cinemas under the guidance of filmmaker James Gunn. Gunn and the new studio he leads are hoping replicate just some of the success he enjoyed while making projects for Marvel. However, there are examples of Gunn's early filmography that suggests why he should be the man for the job. Across his career, he has managed to seamlessly blend genres from horror to sci-fi and action adventures with a keen eye on visuals and emotional musical moments. While time will tell where Superman and Gunn's future DC titles place among his other work, here is a short ranked list of his early films as writer and director or both. Super Super starred Rain Wilson at the height of his fame after starring in The Office, as an ordinary man who has lived a disappointing life. He decides to transform himself into a superhero and fight crime when his wife, a recovering addict, leaves him for another man. That other man just so happens to be a drug dealing Kevin Bacon who has an army of henchmen at his disposal. Crimson Bolt, uses savage violence to compensate for his lack of superhuman abilities, and sets out to rescue his wife from a drug dealer. While promoting Superman, Gunn shared he believed he had never made a superhero movie before. While audiences might think this counts, the hero we find in Super does not have any actual powers. The film is now considered a dark hidden gem, despite receiving a mixed reception upon release. It hit some cinemas in 2010, and was somewhat overlooked by Kick-Ass which shared a release year and a similar concept in examining the comic book superhero. As one fan said: "I love how this movie is messed up and it's exactly why i like it. it's definitely not for everyone. The main characters are sadistic and delusional. While the movie challenges the moral stuff in superhero genre by putting it into the real world context in a sick, disturbing manner, still doesn't take itself too seriously." Super is available to rent on Apple TV and Amazon Video. The Belko Experiment Released in 2017, Gunn penned the script for The Belko Experiment, while he was busy between Marvel projects. However, it fits into the style of his older titles with its use of violence and dark tone. The premise sees eighty Americans fall prey to a deadly experiment when they are locked in their company's corporate office and an anonymous voice orders them to kill each other in order to survive. One fan claimed: "Underrated film, this idea has been done before but The Belko Experiment executes the movie better than its predecessors in my opinion. Reminds me of Battle Royale but in an office setting with adults." The Belko Experiment is streaming on Prime Video. Dawn of the Dead Another of Gunn's early filmography where he was the film's screenwriter, before also sitting in the director's chair. After having written the script for the live-action adaptation for Scooby-Doo (yes, really) Gunn was tasked with penning the remake for a zombie horror classic. Interestingly, while Gunn was the writer for the 2004 version, it was Zack Snyder, the man he replaced as essentially creative lead for DC's cinematic output, who directed it. It follows the same story as the original, with survivors of an epidemic which causes the infected to turn into flesh-eating zombies take refuge in a shopping mall. In addition to battling the undead, they also have to tackle problems from within. This remake saw the introduction of faster, more aggressive zombies. One fan claimed it was an 'instant classic' while another said: "24 years later, still no other film can top this masterpiece. The best zombie film ever created in my opinion." Dawn of the Dead is streaming on Netflix soon. Guardians of the Galaxy Many comic book and film fans may have been forgiven for scratching their heads when it was announced this obscure team of characters would be getting their own movie. Never mind that it would be Gunn to make it. Yet the director blew fans and critics away with his brightly coloured and witty space adventure. This film remains Gunn's highest rated feature film on Rotten Tomatoes with 92% even after two sequels. The Guardians of the Galaxy may not be so obscure any more but its worth remembering how, even among dedicated fans they were not well known. After watching this, it makes perfect sense that Gunn would be handed responsibility for Superman and his Justice League friends. As one fan put it: "Guardians of the Galaxy is pure Marvel magic packed with humour, heart, stunning visuals, and a killer soundtrack. Every time I rewatch it, my mood instantly lifts. James Gunn turned this into a musical-action masterpiece."
Glasgow Times
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Glasgow Times
Glen Michael, STV children's entertainer dies aged 99
His family announced that he passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening at his home in Maidens, South Ayrshire, after a short illness, reports STV. Michael, whose real name was Cecil Buckland, became a much-loved figure in Scottish entertainment through his 26 years of presenting on STV. (Image: Marc Turner) READ MORE: David Tennant's newest game show facing axe after ratings 'disaster' He was best known for Cartoon Cavalcade, which first aired in 1966 and quickly became a hit with viewers. His career began on stage, entertaining British troops with his wife Beryl during World War Two. He later joined the RAF and then moved into television, featuring in several STV programmes and dramas. Michael eventually transitioned to radio before being offered a cameo role in the 2010 film Kick-Ass by Scottish comic book writer Mark Millar. Although the part did not make the final cut, he attended the premiere, saying it made him feel like a "real star". (Image: Marc Turner) READ MORE: Hunt for owner after cat found inside minibus engine following 400-mile journey His impact on Scottish television was acknowledged by STV's managing director of audience, Bobby Hain, who said: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Glen Michael has passed away. "Glen was a wonderful performer and personality, and we know that many viewers will have very fond memories of him. "He was an STV legend, with Glen Michael's Cavalcade a particular favourite for children across Scotland during its 26-year run. "Our thoughts are with his family at this time, and we send them our deepest condolences."
Scottish Sun
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Aaron Taylor Johnson fuels rumours he's the next James Bond as he awkwardly swerves question at 28 days later premiere
SHAKEN & STIRRED Aaron Taylor Johnson fuels rumours he's the next James Bond as he awkwardly swerves question at 28 days later premiere Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) AARON Taylor Johnson has fuelled rumours he's the next James Bond after awkwardly swerving the question on the red carpet. The Kick-Ass actor, 35, appeared at the world premiere of 28 Years Later in London on Wednesday. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 6 Aaron Taylor Johnson has swerved a question about his next project Credit: Splash 6 Aaron with wife Sam Taylor-Johnson at the premiere of 28 Years Later Credit: Splash 6 Daniel Craig was the last 007 Credit: Rex When asked by a Deadline reporter: "What are you doing next?" He replied: "I can't talk about it," before being swiftly ushered away by his entourage. The Sun revealed in March that Aarron had been formerly offered the role and James Bond bosses were waiting for his decision. We also first revealed in 2022 that the Marvel actor had emerged as a surprise frontrunner. Aaron made a name for himself in 2010's Kick-Ass. He then landed the role of Quicksilver in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Eon Productions, which makes the spy thriller films, is on course to start shooting this year. A source said: 'Bond is Aaron's job, should he wish to accept it. The formal offer is on the table and they are waiting to hear back. 'As far as Eon is concerned, Aaron is going to sign his contract in the coming days and they can start preparing for the big announcement.' The next Bond movie had been delayed because of last year's Hollywood strikes. James Bond expert drops huge hint about new 007 actor after he starred in movie with huge A-list actress But insiders confirmed a script was now being worked on, with production scheduled to take place at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire. Aaron was in the running for the top job alongside actors including Oscar-winning Cillian Murphy, Idris Elba, Henry Cavill and James Norton. Speculation intensified in May when Aaron signed a deal with luxury watchmaker Omega - the official timepiece brand of the Bond franchise for three decades. Aaron, who is from High Wycombe, Bucks, secretly screen tested for Bond movie supremo Barbara Broccoli at Pinewood Studios in 2022. When asked earlier this year whether he would step into Bond's shoes, Aaron said: 'I find it charming and wonderful that people see me in that role. "I take it as a great compliment.' Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey was also questioned about the iconic role this week. Jonathan joined Scott Mills on Radio 2 to celebrate the release of the Jurassic World Rebirth film, which stars the actor. And they ended up discussing rumours that Jonathan is a contender to be the next James Bond. Scott said to the star: 'It's an obvious question, but I'm going to be honest with you, it's the one people are asking the most, so I'm going to ask it. Do you, or would you be, James Bond?' Jonathan playfully replied with: 'Scott, how dare you!' to which Scott clarified: 'It's not me, it's the listeners and there are thousands.' The actor managed to somehow sidestep the question, responding: 'I mean, that's an amazingly flattering ask. I could imagine you as James Bond, Scott.' And Scott was quick to pick up on the change of direction, saying: 'Well, swerved, because that's not true. But, I mean, we know you could do it, but you'd want to do it?' Jonathan seemed to be more open to replying, as he said: 'I don't...I am not sure... I don't know. I really, honestly, I mean... it would be hard to say no, but I know that it's going to be exciting whatever they do.' Leaving Scott to reply: 'Thank you for answering that, because it was the most popular question. And I'll be honest, I almost ran away from you a bit like you did with Steven Spielberg, before I asked, but I'm glad I did. Thank you very much.' 6 Aaron and Brad Pitt starred together in 2022's Bullet Train Credit: Rex Features 6 He then landed the role of Quicksilver in the Marvel Cinematic Universe Credit: Rex Features
The Irish Sun
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Aaron Taylor Johnson fuels rumours he's the next James Bond as he awkwardly swerves question at 28 days later premiere
AARON Taylor Johnson has fuelled rumours he's the next James Bond after awkwardly swerving the question on the red carpet. The Kick-Ass actor, 35, appeared at the world premiere of 28 Years Later in London on Wednesday. 6 Aaron Taylor Johnson has swerved a question about his next project Credit: Splash 6 Aaron with wife Sam Taylor-Johnson at the premiere of 28 Years Later Credit: Splash 6 Daniel Craig was the last 007 Credit: Rex When asked by a Deadline reporter: "What are you doing next?" He replied: "I can't talk about it," before being swiftly ushered away by his entourage. The Sun revealed in March that Aarron had been formerly offered the role and James Bond bosses were waiting for his decision. We also first revealed in 2022 that the Marvel actor had emerged as a surprise frontrunner. READ MORE ON JAMES BOND Aaron made a name for himself in 2010's Kick-Ass. He then landed the role of Quicksilver in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Eon Productions, which makes the spy thriller films, is on course to start shooting this year. A source said: 'Bond is Aaron's job, should he wish to accept it. The formal offer is on the table and they are waiting to hear back. Most read in TV 'As far as Eon is concerned, Aaron is going to sign his contract in the coming days and they can start preparing for the big announcement.' The next Bond movie had been delayed because of last year's Hollywood strikes. James Bond expert drops huge hint about new 007 actor after he starred in movie with huge A-list actress But insiders confirmed a script was now being worked on, with production scheduled to take place at Pinewood Studios in Buckinghamshire. Aaron was in the running for the top job alongside actors including Oscar-winning Cillian Murphy, Idris Elba, Henry Cavill and Speculation intensified in May when Aaron signed a deal with luxury watchmaker Omega - the official timepiece brand of the Bond franchise for three decades. Aaron, who is from High Wycombe, Bucks, secretly screen tested for Bond movie supremo Barbara Broccoli at Pinewood Studios in 2022. When asked earlier this year whether he would step into Bond's shoes, Aaron said: 'I find it charming and wonderful that people see me in that role. "I take it as a great compliment.' Bridgerton star Jonathan Jonathan joined Scott Mills on Radio 2 to celebrate the release of the Jurassic World Rebirth film, which stars the actor. And they ended up discussing rumours that Jonathan is a contender to be the next James Bond. Scott said to the star: 'It's an obvious question, but I'm going to be honest with you, it's the one people are asking the most, so I'm going to ask it. Do you, or would you be, James Bond?' Jonathan playfully replied with: 'Scott, how dare you!' to which Scott clarified: 'It's not me, it's the listeners and there are thousands.' The actor managed to somehow sidestep the question, responding: 'I mean, that's an amazingly flattering ask. I could imagine you as James Bond, Scott.' And Scott was quick to pick up on the change of direction, saying: 'Well, swerved, because that's not true. But, I mean, we know you could do it, but you'd want to do it?' Jonathan seemed to be more open to replying, as he said: 'I don't...I am not sure... I don't know. I really, honestly, I mean... it would be hard to say no, but I know that it's going to be exciting whatever they do.' Leaving Scott to reply: 'Thank you for answering that, because it was the most popular question. And I'll be honest, I almost ran away from you a bit like you did with Steven Spielberg, before I asked, but I'm glad I did. Thank you very much.' 6 Aaron and Brad Pitt starred together in 2022's Bullet Train Credit: Rex Features 6 He then landed the role of Quicksilver in the Marvel Cinematic Universe Credit: Rex Features 6 Aaron made a name for himself in 2010's Kick-Ass Credit: Alamy
