So it's the final installment for Mark Millar and John Romita Jr.'s epic story of the ultimate underdog and it looks like it's really far from over for Dave Lizewski and his rag-tag 'superhero' team.
The book reads smart and sassy just like the previous two volumes of Kick Ass with only one major difference, this time Dave really grows up. The real question however if he grew up just right or if he's gone of the boat since the events of last volume. It's an interesting perspective on the vigilante lifestyle and a fearful symmetry as well for our protagonist. It's like Dave's back to square one or even worse. His shining moment has already faded and when you come to the end of the issue, you'll really feel sorry for Kick Ass (maybe even feel a little sad that he's reverted back to being pathetic again after growing so much in the last two volumes).
There's still humor here and there but the tone has definitely shifted to a more serious tone. Unlike the other # 1s for the Kick Ass title, Kick Ass 3 # 1 focuses more on action and a more linear storytelling approach. To be honest though, I kinda miss the non-linear opening for Volume 2 where we're already treated to a slambang hero versus villain in Time Square. But for what it lacks, Millar makes up with character development. As in loads and loads of dev from Kick Ass following being heroic and brave to as Hit Girl would call it a 'fucking pussy'.
Hit Girl's appearance here is relegated to a cameo. So expect lesser badassery and quips from the one-girl killing machine. I'm thinking might be saving it for last.
No supervillain for this one as well, which might change sooner or later. But the lack of masks does not hinder the story as there are still lots of thugs and gangsta wannabes in their world that needs some serious beating.
Overall, I like the pacing for # 1, loved the characterization and more importantly, John Romita's art here is back to form. Sad that there's no threat, no final boss that's looming in the horizon. Lack of cool 'WTF' moment which Millar has set oh-so-high already after his other works such as Nemesis, Superior and Super Crooks.
Also if you're a hardcore fan, I'd like to point out that issue number 1 has a total of six (6) variant covers done by industry greats such as Adam Hughes, Marc Silvestri, Adam Kubert and more. Personally, I got the AH! variant which features a menacingly cute Hit Girl.
Verdict: 8/10
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