I really liked Kick Ass. Yes, it's got a possibly disturbing mix of violence and comedy (mostly involving an 11 year old girl) and if you don't like the main character or the ever-present voice over the film could drag (because I liked it and I still felt it seemed longer than just two hours) but I really enjoyed the film and thought it hit the dark comedy notes almost perfectly.

Matthew Vaughn is one of the more under-the-radar directors out there. I wouldn't call him underrated because I don't think his earlier films are "great" but both Layer Cake and Stardust were solid, entertaining flicks. Despite his distracting snaggletooth, Mark Strong is also becoming a favorite, as is Clark Duke although I fear that his style could get old after a while. I'd like to see him get a shot at a leading role but I think he might be best off as the friend/supporting cast member.

As for this year's films that I've seen, Kick-Ass is definitely #1. After that, it was a bunch of films that I didn't really enjoy but could respect. On the bright side, there wasn't a movie that I didn't like. "Hot Tub Time Machine" is at the bottom of my list but I thought it was OK. Something about the tone of it just didn't click with me and I thought it focused too much on the rather thin story and should have gone for more laughs instead.

The List so far is: 1. Kick Ass
--- 2. Shutter Island
3. A Prophet
4. Mother
5. Green Zone
6. The Crazies
7. Youth in Revolt
8. Hot Tub Time Machine

I'm looking to check out "Death at a Funeral" next as well as the American education system documentary "The Cartel" as well. The latter isn't out everywhere but is about to open in LA.