Movies like 'Kick-Ass': A List of 20 Must-See Superhero Satires

Lila Sommers

Lila Sommers

Movies Like 'Kick-Ass'

If you're a fan of the action-packed and irreverently humorous vibe of "Kick-Ass," you're in for a treat! This blog post explores the dynamic world of superheroes, vigilantes, and unconventional heroes, presenting the 20 best movies that share the same thrilling tones as "Kick-Ass."

From offbeat comedies to visually stunning action films, this curated list promises an exhilarating cinematic experience for those who crave the perfect blend of adrenaline and laughter.

Dive into a realm where ordinary individuals don capes, masks, or wield extraordinary skills, navigating through a landscape that challenges traditional superhero narratives. Discover hidden gems that capture the essence of "Kick-Ass" and redefine the boundaries of the superhero genre.

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Rotten tomatoes85%
iMBD65
Metacritic8

In the irreverent world of "Deadpool," Wade Wilson's journey to becoming an antihero mirrors the subversive humor and unconventional heroism of "Kick-Ass." Wade, like Kick-Ass, breaks the fourth wall, offering a self-awareness that adds a unique comedic layer. Both films share a penchant for R-rated action and humor, challenging the traditional superhero narrative. "Deadpool" stands as a testament to the genre's ability to embrace darker, more comedic tones, creating an unforgettable experience for fans of unconventional heroes.

CAST

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds

Morena Baccarin

Morena Baccarin

Ed Skrein

Ed Skrein

T.J. Miller

T.J. Miller

Gina Carano

Gina Carano

Leslie Uggams

Leslie Uggams

Brianna Hildebrand

Brianna Hildebrand

Karan Soni

Karan Soni

Jed Rees

Jed Rees

Stefan Kapičić

Stefan Kapičić

Directed by Tim Miller
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Rotten tomatoes94%
iMBD45
Metacritic7.9

"Iron Man" introduces Tony Stark, a charismatic genius whose transformation into a superhero mirrors the journey of "Kick-Ass." Both characters lack innate superpowers but compensate with intelligence and determination. "Iron Man" and "Kick-Ass" share a blend of humor and action, weaving compelling narratives around ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances. While "Iron Man" adheres to a more traditional superhero arc, its wit, and Robert Downey Jr.'s charismatic portrayal echo the spirit of "Kick-Ass," making it a cornerstone in the superhero film genre.

CAST

Robert Downey Jr.

Robert Downey Jr.

Terrence Howard

Terrence Howard

Jeff Bridges

Jeff Bridges

Gwyneth Paltrow

Gwyneth Paltrow

Leslie Bibb

Leslie Bibb

Bill Smitrovich

Bill Smitrovich

Paul Bettany

Paul Bettany

Jon Favreau

Jon Favreau

Shaun Toub

Shaun Toub

Faran Tahir

Faran Tahir

Directed by Jon Favreau
Image
Rotten tomatoes75%
iMBD60
Metacritic7.7

In "Kingsman: The Secret Service," director Matthew Vaughn once again infuses his distinctive style into the spy genre, akin to his work on "Kick-Ass." Both films feature stylized action, witty dialogue, and a fresh take on their respective genres. "Kingsman" embraces the same irreverent humor and over-the-top action as "Kick-Ass," creating a visually stunning and entertaining experience. Whether it's street-level superheroes or refined spies, Vaughn's directorial touch ensures a blend of excitement and humor, making "Kingsman" a thrilling counterpart to "Kick-Ass."

CAST

Taron Egerton

Taron Egerton

Colin Firth

Colin Firth

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson

Mark Strong

Mark Strong

Sophie Cookson

Sophie Cookson

Sofia Boutella

Sofia Boutella

Michael Caine

Michael Caine

Mark Hamill

Mark Hamill

Samantha Womack

Samantha Womack

Jonno Davies

Jonno Davies

Directed by Matthew Vaughn
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Rotten tomatoes65%
iMBD56
Metacritic7.6

"Watchmen" stands as a cinematic powerhouse that, like "Kick-Ass," redefines the superhero genre. Set in an alternate reality where masked vigilantes exist, the film delves into complex characters, moral ambiguity, and societal commentary. Just as "Kick-Ass" challenges conventional heroism, "Watchmen" explores the darker, grittier aspects of superheroism. With intricate storytelling and a visually stunning approach, both films share a commitment to pushing boundaries. "Watchmen" engages audiences with a rich narrative and morally complex characters, offering a mature and thought-provoking exploration of the superhero mythos.

CAST

Malin Åkerman

Malin Åkerman

Patrick Wilson

Patrick Wilson

Billy Crudup

Billy Crudup

Matthew Goode

Matthew Goode

Jackie Earle Haley

Jackie Earle Haley

Jeffrey Dean Morgan

Jeffrey Dean Morgan

Carla Gugino

Carla Gugino

Laura Mennell

Laura Mennell

Matt Frewer

Matt Frewer

Stephen McHattie

Stephen McHattie

Directed by Zack Snyder
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Rotten tomatoes89%
iMBD73
Metacritic7.6

While not a traditional superhero film, "Zombieland" shares the irreverent humor and unconventional heroism found in "Kick-Ass." In this zom-com, a group of survivors navigates a zombie apocalypse, delivering laughs and unexpected hero moments. Similar to the tone set by "Kick-Ass," "Zombieland" blends action and humor seamlessly. The characters, like Kick-Ass, find themselves in absurd and dangerous situations, showcasing a resilient spirit in the face of chaos. With its unique blend of comedy and apocalyptic action, "Zombieland" resonates with those who appreciate unconventional heroes and unexpected laughter.

CAST

Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson

Jesse Eisenberg

Jesse Eisenberg

Emma Stone

Emma Stone

Abigail Breslin

Abigail Breslin

Amber Heard

Amber Heard

Bill Murray

Bill Murray

Elle Alexander

Elle Alexander

Melanie Booth

Melanie Booth

Chris Burns

Chris Burns

Directed by Ruben Fleischer
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Rotten tomatoes42%
iMBD49
Metacritic6.4

"Hancock" offers a fresh take on superheroism, akin to the unconventional approach in "Kick-Ass." Starring Will Smith as an antihero with superpowers, the film explores the complexities of a flawed hero seeking redemption. Both films challenge the conventional image of superheroes by presenting characters with imperfections and personal struggles. "Hancock" engages with themes of identity and the consequences of a superhuman existence, mirroring the darker and more mature tones found in "Kick-Ass." With its unique narrative and character depth, "Hancock" provides a thought-provoking and entertaining experience, appealing to fans of unconventional superhero tales.

CAST

Will Smith

Will Smith

Charlize Theron

Charlize Theron

Jason Bateman

Jason Bateman

Jae Head

Jae Head

Eddie Marsan

Eddie Marsan

David Mattey

David Mattey

Maetrix Fitten

Maetrix Fitten

Thomas Lennon

Thomas Lennon

Johnny Galecki

Johnny Galecki

Hayley Marie Norman

Hayley Marie Norman

Directed by Peter Berg
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Rotten tomatoes82%
iMBD69
Metacritic7.5

"Scott Pilgrim vs. The World" thrusts audiences into a visually inventive realm where Scott, like Kick-Ass, navigates the challenges of an unconventional hero's journey. This film combines romance, comedy, and video game aesthetics, mirroring Kick-Ass's blend of genres. Scott's battles against his girlfriend's exes parallel Kick-Ass's clashes with criminals, creating a unique, action-packed experience. Both films share a vibrant energy, celebrating the extraordinary in the ordinary, and offer a visual feast for those craving unconventional narratives and dynamic characters.

CAST

Michael Cera

Michael Cera

Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Mary Elizabeth Winstead

Ellen Wong

Ellen Wong

Kieran Culkin

Kieran Culkin

Alison Pill

Alison Pill

Mark Webber

Mark Webber

Johnny Simmons

Johnny Simmons

Jason Schwartzman

Jason Schwartzman

Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick

Aubrey Plaza

Aubrey Plaza

Directed by Edgar Wright
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Rotten tomatoes91%
iMBD70
Metacritic7.4

In "The Nice Guys," a mismatched duo, embodying a different kind of heroism, mirrors the unconventional partnerships seen in "Kick-Ass." The film blends humor and mystery as these investigators navigate the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles. Like Kick-Ass's irreverent tone, "The Nice Guys" delivers witty banter, unexpected alliances, and a fresh take on the crime genre. With its '70s setting and charismatic leads, the film caters to those who appreciate unconventional heroes operating in worlds where justice is far from conventional.

CAST

Russell Crowe

Russell Crowe

Ryan Gosling

Ryan Gosling

Angourie Rice

Angourie Rice

Margaret Qualley

Margaret Qualley

Kim Basinger

Kim Basinger

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta

Matt Bomer

Matt Bomer

Keith David

Keith David

Beau Knapp

Beau Knapp

Lois Smith

Lois Smith

Directed by Shane Black
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Rotten tomatoes49%
Metacritic6.7

"Super" delves into the dark and comedic, much like "Kick-Ass," as an everyday man takes on the role of a vigilante. Rainn Wilson's character, grappling with loss and a desire for justice, shares thematic parallels with Kick-Ass. The film explores the consequences of vigilantism, akin to Kick-Ass's exploration of the darker side of superheroism. With its blend of humor, brutality, and unconventional heroism, "Super" aligns with the tones that made "Kick-Ass" a standout in the genre, offering a gripping exploration of real-world superheroes with flawed motivations.

CAST

Rainn Wilson

Rainn Wilson

Elliot Page

Elliot Page

Liv Tyler

Liv Tyler

Kevin Bacon

Kevin Bacon

Gregg Henry

Gregg Henry

Michael Rooker

Michael Rooker

Andre Royo

Andre Royo

Sean Gunn

Sean Gunn

Stephen Blackehart

Stephen Blackehart

Linda Cardellini

Linda Cardellini

Directed by James Gunn
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Rotten tomatoes43%
iMBD47
Metacritic6.9

In "The Hitman's Bodyguard," Michael Bryce, a top-tier bodyguard, is reluctantly assigned to protect notorious hitman Darius Kincaid. This action-packed comedy mirrors the dynamic partnerships seen in "Kick-Ass." With its blend of humor, high-octane action, and unexpected camaraderie, the film follows the odd couple as they navigate danger and redemption. The similarities with "Kick-Ass" lie in the juxtaposition of seemingly ordinary characters in extraordinary circumstances, providing a rollercoaster of laughs and adrenaline-pumping moments for fans of irreverent, action-infused storytelling.

CAST

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds

Samuel L. Jackson

Samuel L. Jackson

Gary Oldman

Gary Oldman

Salma Hayek Pinault

Salma Hayek Pinault

Richard E. Grant

Richard E. Grant

Élodie Yung

Élodie Yung

Joaquim de Almeida

Joaquim de Almeida

Kirsty Mitchell

Kirsty Mitchell

Yuri Kolokolnikov

Yuri Kolokolnikov

Sam Hazeldine

Sam Hazeldine

Directed by Patrick Hughes
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Rotten tomatoes92%
iMBD72
Metacritic7

While not a superhero film, "The Cabin in the Woods" shares the element of genre subversion present in "Kick-Ass." Directed by Drew Goddard, the movie blends horror and comedy, turning traditional horror tropes on their head. Like "Kick-Ass," it defies expectations and delivers unexpected twists. A group of friends heads to a remote cabin, but as events unfold, the narrative takes a sharp turn, offering a fresh perspective on a familiar genre. For those who appreciated the unconventional storytelling of "Kick-Ass," "The Cabin in the Woods" provides a thrilling and unpredictable ride.

CAST

Kristen Connolly

Kristen Connolly

Fran Kranz

Fran Kranz

Jesse Williams

Jesse Williams

Anna Hutchison

Anna Hutchison

Chris Hemsworth

Chris Hemsworth

Richard Jenkins

Richard Jenkins

Bradley Whitford

Bradley Whitford

Sigourney Weaver

Sigourney Weaver

Brian J. White

Brian J. White

Amy Acker

Amy Acker

Directed by Drew Goddard
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Rotten tomatoes60%
iMBD65
Metacritic6.1

In the underrated gem "Mystery Men," a group of unconventional heroes, each with peculiar abilities, comes together to save the day. Similar to "Kick-Ass," the film takes a comedic approach to the superhero genre, showcasing characters with less-than-extraordinary powers. This quirky ensemble ventures into crime-fighting with a comedic twist, offering a unique blend of humor and unconventional heroism reminiscent of the irreverent charm found in "Kick-Ass." "Mystery Men" thrives on its ability to satirize superhero conventions while celebrating the strength that lies in embracing one's quirks, making it a hidden treasure for fans of offbeat, superhero-inspired narratives.

CAST

Hank Azaria

Hank Azaria

Janeane Garofalo

Janeane Garofalo

William H. Macy

William H. Macy

Kel Mitchell

Kel Mitchell

Paul Reubens

Paul Reubens

Ben Stiller

Ben Stiller

Wes Studi

Wes Studi

Greg Kinnear

Greg Kinnear

Geoffrey Rush

Geoffrey Rush

Lena Olin

Lena Olin

Directed by Kinka Usher
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Rotten tomatoes92%
iMBD76
Metacritic7.9

While not a traditional superhero film, "Shaun of the Dead" parallels "Kick-Ass" in its inventive blending of genres—combining comedy, horror, and unexpected heroism. This British cult classic follows Shaun and his friends as they confront a zombie apocalypse with humor and a distinctive sense of style. Just as "Kick-Ass" injects humor into the superhero world, "Shaun of the Dead" infuses a zombie tale with wit and heart, creating a genre-defying experience. Both films share a common thread of ordinary individuals facing extraordinary circumstances, delivering laughter amidst chaos and underscoring the strength found in embracing one's inner hero.

CAST

Simon Pegg

Simon Pegg

Nick Frost

Nick Frost

Kate Ashfield

Kate Ashfield

Lucy Davis

Lucy Davis

Dylan Moran

Dylan Moran

Penelope Wilton

Penelope Wilton

Bill Nighy

Bill Nighy

Peter Serafinowicz

Peter Serafinowicz

Jessica Hynes

Jessica Hynes

Rafe Spall

Rafe Spall

Directed by Edgar Wright
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Rotten tomatoes76%
iMBD74
Metacritic8

"Sin City" captivates with its visually stunning and neo-noir aesthetic, offering a darker counterpart to "Kick-Ass." Both films share a penchant for pushing visual and narrative boundaries within their respective genres. Directed by Frank Miller, "Sin City" weaves interconnected stories of crime, corruption, and antiheroes. Its stylized violence and morally ambiguous characters resonate with the edginess present in "Kick-Ass." As both films delve into unconventional heroism in gritty urban landscapes, "Sin City" stands as a visually arresting counterpart that explores the shadows and complexities inherent in the realm of morally ambiguous heroes and antiheroes.

CAST

Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis

Jessica Alba

Jessica Alba

Clive Owen

Clive Owen

Mickey Rourke

Mickey Rourke

Rutger Hauer

Rutger Hauer

Benicio del Toro

Benicio del Toro

Alexis Bledel

Alexis Bledel

Michael Madsen

Michael Madsen

Powers Boothe

Powers Boothe

Nick Stahl

Nick Stahl

Directed by Robert Rodriguez
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Rotten tomatoes31%
iMBD44
Metacritic6.6

In the adrenaline-fueled "Smokin' Aces," the parallels with "Kick-Ass" emerge through a fast-paced, action-packed narrative. The film centers on a group of eccentric assassins vying to take down a mob informant. Just like "Kick-Ass," "Smokin' Aces" features unconventional characters and intense, stylized sequences. Both films showcase a world where ordinary rules are tossed aside for a visceral, unpredictable experience. With its dark humor and a cast of memorable characters, "Smokin' Aces" mirrors the audacity and unpredictability that fans of "Kick-Ass" appreciate, making it a thrilling ride for those who crave high-stakes action and unconventional storytelling.

CAST

Ryan Reynolds

Ryan Reynolds

Andy García

Andy García

Martin Henderson

Martin Henderson

Chris Pine

Chris Pine

Ray Liotta

Ray Liotta

Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys

Common

Common

Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson

Jeremy Piven

Jeremy Piven

Ben Affleck

Ben Affleck

Directed by Joe Carnahan

More Hidden Gems Like 'Kick-Ass'

Unearth cinematic gems with our selection of highly underrated films akin to "Kick-Ass." Delve into the overlooked realm of heroes and antiheroes, where quirky narratives and unique perspectives shine.

These films, often overshadowed, bring a fresh take on action, comedy, and unconventional heroism, promising an underrated yet exhilarating cinematic journey.

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Rotten tomatoes72%
iMBD57
Metacritic6.7

In the underrated gem "Defendor," Woody Harrelson embodies Arthur Poppington, a seemingly average man who adopts the alter ego of a superhero without superpowers. Echoing the spirit of "Kick-Ass," Arthur's unconventional journey is filled with humor and heart as he confronts real-world problems. The film's darkly comedic tone and exploration of vigilantism align with "Kick-Ass," showcasing the blurred lines between heroism and everyday struggles. "Defendor" offers a refreshing take on the superhero narrative, emphasizing that heroism can emerge from the most unexpected places, much like the titular character in "Kick-Ass."

CAST

Woody Harrelson

Woody Harrelson

Kat Dennings

Kat Dennings

Elias Koteas

Elias Koteas

Sandra Oh

Sandra Oh

Clark Johnson

Clark Johnson

Michael Kelly

Michael Kelly

Kristin Booth

Kristin Booth

Lisa Ray

Lisa Ray

A.C. Peterson

A.C. Peterson

Tony Nappo

Tony Nappo

Directed by Peter Stebbings
Image
Rotten tomatoes58%
Metacritic6.8

In the intriguing film "Special," Michael Rapaport portrays Les, an ordinary man who believes he possesses superpowers after participating in a clinical trial. Drawing parallels with "Kick-Ass," "Special" delves into the psyche of its protagonist, blurring the lines between reality and delusion. Les, like the characters in "Kick-Ass," challenges the conventional superhero archetype, offering a unique exploration of identity and mental health. With its blend of dark humor and thought-provoking themes, "Special" stands as an underrated gem that resonates with those who appreciate unconventional takes on the superhero genre.

CAST

Michael Rapaport

Michael Rapaport

Paul Blackthorne

Paul Blackthorne

Josh Peck

Josh Peck

Robert Baker

Robert Baker

Jack Kehler

Jack Kehler

Alexandra Holden

Alexandra Holden

Ian Bohen

Ian Bohen

Christopher Darga

Christopher Darga

Michael Shamus Wiles

Michael Shamus Wiles

Erich Anderson

Erich Anderson

Directed by Hal Haberman
Image
Rotten tomatoes16%
iMBD33
Metacritic4.6

In the uproarious "Superhero Movie," we encounter Rick Riker, an ordinary high school student turned accidental superhero. Mirroring the irreverent humor of "Kick-Ass," this parody takes a satirical jab at traditional superhero tropes. Rick, like Kick-Ass, lacks superhuman abilities but navigates a hilarious journey of self-discovery. The film delivers a comedic punch, poking fun at iconic moments from the superhero genre. From absurd origin stories to amusing crime-fighting attempts, "Superhero Movie" captures the essence of "Kick-Ass" with its tongue-in-cheek approach to the superhero narrative, ensuring laughter at every turn.

CAST

Drake Bell

Drake Bell

Sara Paxton

Sara Paxton

Christopher McDonald

Christopher McDonald

Leslie Nielsen

Leslie Nielsen

Kevin Hart

Kevin Hart

Marion Ross

Marion Ross

Ryan Hansen

Ryan Hansen

Keith David

Keith David

Brent Spiner

Brent Spiner

Robert Joy

Robert Joy

Directed by Craig Mazin
Image
Rotten tomatoes77%
iMBD77
Metacritic7

A cult classic in the realm of grindhouse cinema, "Planet Terror" channels the same gritty intensity and stylized action as "Kick-Ass." In this Rodriguez-directed film, a group of survivors battles a zombie apocalypse. With its over-the-top violence and dark humor, "Planet Terror" aligns with the unconventional, boundary-pushing spirit found in "Kick-Ass," making it a must-watch for fans of edgy, genre-blurring storytelling. Both films share a penchant for embracing the absurd while delivering high-octane action, creating an immersive experience that defies traditional cinematic norms.

CAST

Rose McGowan

Rose McGowan

Freddy Rodríguez

Freddy Rodríguez

Marley Shelton

Marley Shelton

Josh Brolin

Josh Brolin

Jeff Fahey

Jeff Fahey

Michael Biehn

Michael Biehn

Bruce Willis

Bruce Willis

Naveen Andrews

Naveen Andrews

Rebel Rodriguez

Rebel Rodriguez

Julio Oscar Mechoso

Julio Oscar Mechoso

Directed by Robert Rodriguez
Image
Rotten tomatoes16%
iMBD36
Metacritic5.9

Departing from the superhero theme, "Special Correspondents" shares the offbeat humor found in "Kick-Ass." This Ricky Gervais film explores the misadventures of a radio journalist and technician who fabricate their own kidnapping. As in "Kick-Ass," the characters navigate through absurd situations, delivering a blend of comedy and unexpected heroism. With its unconventional narrative and witty dialogue, "Special Correspondents" caters to those who appreciate the unexpected and humorous side of ordinary individuals thrust into extraordinary circumstances. The film's charm lies in its ability to create relatable yet uproarious moments, akin to the spirit of "Kick-Ass."

CAST

Ricky Gervais

Ricky Gervais

Eric Bana

Eric Bana

Vera Farmiga

Vera Farmiga

Kelly Macdonald

Kelly Macdonald

Benjamin Bratt

Benjamin Bratt

Raúl Castillo

Raúl Castillo

America Ferrera

America Ferrera

Meghan Heffern

Meghan Heffern

Kevin Pollak

Kevin Pollak

Mimi Kuzyk

Mimi Kuzyk

Directed by Ricky Gervais

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Lila Sommers

About Lila Sommers

Lila is your media maven with a passion for the extraordinary! Spot her at the local bookstore or crafting her own stories on lazy Sunday afternoons. From indie flicks to hidden gem tracks, Lila's knack for weaving words and tunes is unmatched, making her your ultimate companion in the exciting world of media and entertainment.

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