Latest news with #KickAss
The Sun
a day ago
- Entertainment
- The 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 6 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 6 6
Daily Mail
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Aaron Taylor-Johnson drops cryptic clue he could be next James Bond at 28 Years Later premiere in London
Aaron Taylor-Johnson has further fuelled rumors he could be the next James Bond after responding cryptically to a question about his upcoming projects. Speculation about the forthcoming movie has been heating up in recent weeks with fans desperate to discover who will be following in the footsteps of Daniel Craig. At the world premiere of 28 Years Later in London on Wednesday, a Deadline reporter asked the Kick-Ass actor: 'What are you doing next?' The 35-year-old replied, 'I can't talk about it', as he was pulled away by his entourage. Some saw the curt response as a hint that his next project could be the 007 franchise, based on the novels by Ian Fleming. The Godzilla star has been one of those actors touted for the role, with Aaron even becoming the bookies' frontrunner at points. In May, Aaron appeared to hint that he could be the next superstar to don the iconic tux after signing a deal with the film's watch provider, Omega. Prior to Amazon's purchase of the Bond franchise, it was rumoured that Aaron was former Bond producer Barbara Broccoli's ideal candidate to take over the reigns from Craig. But he slightly dropped down the lists after playing it cool when asked about the possibility of him starring in the next movie. 'It's not really for me to say anything,' he told Esquire when quizzed about speculation. But the superstar joined Omega's family of global ambassadors - the makers of the watches which have been on the wrists of 007 actors for 30 years. Pierce Brosnan, 72, was the first special agent to don Omega during the 1995 film GoldenEye and the partnership has flourished ever since, with Craig wearing the brand's Seamaster watch during No Time To Die. After signing the deal, Aaron said: 'I have always had an appreciation for timepieces but especially for Omega. At the world premiere of 28 Years Later in London on Wednesday, a Deadline reporter asked the Kick-Ass actor: 'What are you doing next?' After signing the lavish new deal, the actor said: 'I have always had an appreciation for timepieces but especially for Omega' 'Now, after visiting the factory, I am in awe of the skill required to manufacture such a luxurious product.' Omega's CEO described Aaron as a 'versatile actor with a range that covers action, thriller, romance and much more'. It's precisely those qualities - and his striking good looks - that have led to the actor's strong links to the role. Last week, Jonathan Bailey responded to rumours touting him as the next James Bond during an awkward exchange with Scott Mills on BBC Radio 2. Daniel Craig relinquished his 'license to kill' with the 2021 film No Time To Die, which also proved to be the last masterminded by Bond producer of 30 years Barbara Broccoli after Amazon took over 'creative control' of the franchise. Having spent a reported $1billion on sealing the deal, the company are said to be fast-tracking the new movie with Hollywood producers David Heyman and Amy Pascal hired to bring in the new era of Bond. They're likely to want to put their own spin on 007, with Bridgerton star Jonathan Bailey said to be one of the names in the running. Pressed by Scott about the rumours, the 37-year-old responded: 'That's an amazingly flattering ask. I mean, it would be hard to say no.' While Bailey stopped short of confirming anything official, he teased: 'I don't know, I really honestly... I mean it would be hard to say no.' The actor then joked with Scott: 'I could imagine you as James Blonde,' to which the host replied: 'Well swerved!' 'I know that it's going to be exciting whatever they do,' Bailey then affirmed. It came after the Brit - who played the starring role in Bridgerton - was tipped for the part of 007 by Harris Dickinson, 28, who had been a bookies' favourite. Harris had been in attendance at a BFI event in Cannes last month when he was asked who he thought would be the best Bond with the questioner saying that he was their 'second choice' for the role. 'Jonathan Bailey is your first choice, so lets go with that,' said Harris. 'That sounds like a good idea.'
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Aaron Taylor-Johnson, 35, holds hands with his stylish wife Sam, 58, as they leave 28 years later afterparty together following glitzy premiere
Aaron Taylor-Johnson held hands with his stylish wife Sam as they left the 28 years later afterparty together on Wednesday night following the glitzy premiere. The actor, 35, and the director, 58, looked as loved-up as ever as they departed hand in hand. The Kick-Ass star, who plays scavenger Jamie in the latest film in the franchise, sported long curly auburn locks with a full beard. And wore a striped suit that featured a slightly cropped jacket and matching trousers. Meanwhile, Sam, 58, looked chic in a plunging halterneck dress that featured a flowing A-line skirt. She added a stylish black leather jacket to the look to head home as she looked in great spirits. The release of 28 Years Later has been long-awaited, with fans left waiting two decades to discover the next instalment in the film series. And with the nation devastated by the Rage virus nearly three decades ago, this new film - released June 19 - will show insight into the vastly different ways humanity has adapted to survive. For one such community, this means complete isolation from the outside world, and in a new clip ahead of the film's premiere, star Aaron shares insight into this new addition to the 28 Days Later universe for the first time. In this new land, known as The Holy Island, humans are entirely self-sufficient, and only leave the community to hunt on the mainland, when the tide is low. Aaron plays Jamie a scavenger who is tasked with training his Spike to survive in the wilderness, before they embark on a deadly mission to the mainland. Meanwhile, Jodie Comer plays Jamie's wife, a woman who is suffering from memory loss. Just a matter of weeks ago the Hollywood star signed a deal making him a global ambassador for luxury watch brand Omega - which fans were sure was a major hint he could be the next actor to don the iconic tux of 007. Leading lady Jodie Comer meanwhile wore a shiny silver dress as she left the after party Omega have been the watch providers of the franchise for more than 30 years, with Pierce Brosnan the first Bond actor to wear an Omega watch during GoldenEye. After signing the deal, Aaron said: 'I have always had an appreciation for timepieces but especially for Omega. 'Now, after visiting the factory, I am in awe of the skill required to manufacture such a luxurious product.' Omega's CEO described Aaron as a 'versatile actor with a range that covers action, thriller, romance and much more'. It's precisely those qualities - and his striking good looks - that have led to the actor's strong links to Bond. Aaron has been considered a frontrunner to become the next 007 since Daniel Craig relinquished the role with the 2021 film No Time To Die. In fact the actor was actually believed to have been former Bond producer Barbara Broccoli's ideal candidate before the franchise was purchased by Amazon. Aaron has repeatedly played it cool when asked about the possibility of him succeeding Craig however. 'It's not really for me to say anything,' he told Esquire when quizzed about speculation. But he's even been tipped for the role by former Bond star Pierce Brosnan. After being asked about the possibility of Aaron playing the part during an appearance on The Jonathan Ross show a few weeks ago, the 72-year-old said: 'I think he would make a very fine Bond. 'He was actually in one of the movies I made called The Greatest. This young man we cast as The Greatest. The two leading stars were also joined on the red carpet by Alfie Williams, who plays their son in the film 'He was so impressive then. He just had this charisma, he had this presence... he would be so good. But there's many men on the list, I'm sure.' In the latest bookies' odds for the role however, Aaron has been pipped at the top by two British stars. The current favourite to become the next Bond is none other than The Divergent series star Theo James, 40, who is currently 6/4. Second favourite to become the latest actor 'with a license to kill', according to Ladbrokes, is Superman star Henry Cavill (3/1), ahead of Aaron in third (7/2).
News.com.au
31-05-2025
- Entertainment
- News.com.au
Films that shaped Aaron Taylor-Johnson to be the next James Bond
The rumour mill went into overdrive last week when a major clue suggested that British heart-throb Aaron Taylor-Johnson has signed on to be the next James Bond. Many names have been thrown in the mix as to who will take over the iconic 007 gig from Daniel Craig. From Idris Alba to Regé-Jean Page to Theo James and Henry Cavill, it's been quite the guessing game in Hollywood. But the biggest clue came last week when Taylor-Johnson was announced as an ambassador for Omega – the brand of watch that the sexy secret agent has been wearing in every film since Golden Eye in 1995. Taylor-Johnson, 34, join the luxe label's roster of global ambassadors, with the latest promotional campaign showing the Kick-Ass and Avengers actor staring into a cabinet filled with the expensive wristwatches. According to The Sun, the Marvel star was formally offered the role of the British spy last year – and it's easy to see why Taylor-Johnson is a cut above the rest. He's British, he's dapper and he's Kick-Ass. Yep, the actor quite literally played the titular character in the 2010 film Kick-Ass and its 2013 sequel, Kick-Ass 2. So he's also got the spy moves down pat. But before he goes all suave and secret agent on us, here are the films that quite possibly helped shape Taylor-Johnson to become the next James Bond – and they are all available to watch for free on streaming service Tubi. All we can say is, Taylor-Johnson – who was recently labelled Britain's next leading man by Rolling Stone – has had quite the glow-up… Kick-Ass In this 2010 action-comedy, Taylor-Johnson plays high school geek Dave Lizewski who reinvents himself as the superhero Kick-Ass. He has zero powers, but confidence is everything. And by wearing his green and yellow mask, he goes from ordinary to extraordinary as he fights crime with his trusty batons. He may need to ditch them for an Aston Martin and sleek gadgets as 007, but Taylor-Johnson will find his Kick-Ass training will come in handy should he be faced with some villains and henchmen in the James Bond films. Dummy He was a reluctant hero in the 2008 tear-jerker Dummy, but Taylor-Johnson got to hone his craft. Here, the actor showed off his acting range to play Danny, an aspiring DJ who assumes a parental role in his younger brother Jack's life when their mother suddenly dies. The brothers take different approaches to dealing with her death – Danny takes the destructive route plotted with sex, drugs and music, and Jack (played by Thomas Grant) adopts a more unconventional method by finding a mannequin and dressing it up like their mother. As they learn to come to terms with their mum's death, Taylor-Johnson is superb as he navigates a rollercoaster of emotions in the film. The Magic Door Before he was a superhero in Kick-Ass and a sensitive soul on Dummy, Taylor-Johnson played make believe in the fantasy-adventure film The Magic Door. In this tale that's part Power Rangers, part Hansel and Gretel, the fresh-faced actor plays an elf named Flip who goes on an adventure with two runaway siblings. The trio encounter a troll named Raglin who is trying to find the magic door that will take him back home to Fairyland. But the path is no yellow brick road once they encounter Raglin's bitter enemy, the Black Witch. A troll, an evil witch and a frosty face-off, it sounds like the fairytale version of James Bond, if you ask us.
Geek Vibes Nation
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Vibes Nation
'Kick-Ass' 15th Anniversary 4K UHD Blu-Ray SteelBook Review - A Twisted Take On The Superhero Genre
Not all superheroes wear capes — some don a customized wet suit and dub themselves Kick-Ass! Based on a beloved comic series, this 15th anniversary release of the twisted, high octane action-adventure from director Matthew Vaughn (the Kingsman films) follows a comic book-obsessed teen (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) who reinvents himself as a crime-fighting hero, with one glaring problem: he has no training or actual superpowers. In a near-death confrontation with a ruthless drug dealer, Kick-Ass is rescued by a pair of costumed, highly skilled vigilantes — Big Daddy (Nicolas Cage) and his daughter, Hit Girl (Chloë Grace Moretz). When they all join forces along with another rookie avenger called Red Mist (Christopher Mintz-Plasse), a brutal mobster and object of Big Daddy's vengeance pushes their alliance and skills to the brink. For previous thoughts on Kick-Ass , please see our 4K UHD review of the film here. Video Quality The 15th anniversary 4K UHD Blu-Ray of Kick-Ass from the Lionsgate Limited line comes in its original 2.40:1 in 2160p with Dolby Vision. The film was first released on 4K UHD Blu-Ray in 2017, a release which was repurposed in 2020 for the Best Buy exclusive SteelBook. This new 4K UHD Blu-Ray is not the exact same disc that was released previously thanks to new special features and a new encode, but the general viewing experience is not a notable difference from what came before. The fact that this does not come with an accompanying Blu-Ray may also be a drawback for some viewers. Unfortunately, there are still elements that make this one of the weaker titles on the format. The most notable improvement from the old Blu-Ray is in its vivid, heightened color palette which makes the film seem even more like a surreal dream. There are significant gains in visual pop and saturation that make the bold colors leap off the screen even more. Where the film falters more so are the pushed black levels that give the film an oily sheen in darker elements that are not appreciated. The argument that this could be a benefit to the fantastic ambiance of the film is valid, but it just looks a bit strange in the end. Any improvements in the compression on this 15th anniversary do not change this in a major way. The highlights in the film are more defined with whites more pure and balanced with no instances of blooming to be found. Skin tones experience a tiny bit of DNR at times which gives a waxy appearance that robs some of the detail. The transfer reveals an increase in the depth of field in the varied locations that we visit around the city. In the wake of the various scenes of destruction, you can more clearly make out textures within the production design, not to mention the textures of the costumes. The grain in the film can be a bit problematic with some instances of unnatural swarming in a few instances. This coupled with some unsightly print damage in a few shots feels like a problem that should not be on the table for such a recent release. There are definite benefits to this 4K upgrade, but it is not the homerun some fans may have hoped for in the end, and those with the previous 4K UHD Blu-Ray will not be treated to a notable upgrade. Audio Quality This disc comes equipped with a dynamite Dolby Atmos presentation that will give your system a workout. This has always been a title that sounded practically perfect, but the addition of the height channels makes this one supremely immersive. Sounds are appropriately rendered with precise directionality from the more kinetic action scenes to interpersonal moments of dialogue. The overhead channels are especially welcome during some of the fight scenes in a way that makes it feel more immersive. Ambient details are plentiful and quite satisfying in the rear and overhead channels. The score envelopes the room in a really pleasing manner that transports you into this world. Dialogue is presented perfectly clear without ever being overwhelmed by any of the competing sonic elements. The gunfire and forceful hits provide an all-encompassing soundscape that kicks in throughout all the speakers. The low end is very active in a way that may have your neighbors complaining. The mix will more than satisfy fans of the film. Optional English, English SDH, and Spanish subtitles are provided. Special Features Lionsgate has provided Kick-Ass with an optional sleek new SteelBook that is truly lovely in person. The case comes with a removable clear slipcase with some additional artistic elements. The front artwork is a nicely animated depiction of Kick-Ass, Hit Girl and Big Daddy, and the rear features a similar depiction of Frank D'Amico and Red Mist. The interior sports a comic book-style depiction of Kick-Ass with his jetpack flying through the city. Photos of the Steelbook can be found at the end of this review. Audio Commentary: Director Mathew Vaughn provides a decent commentary track recorded at the time of the film's premiere in which he lays out the development of the film and takes you scene by scene detailing some of the different elements that had to come together during production to create this film. A bit dry at times, but overall entertaining. Pure Cinematic Fun: A new 20-minute interview with director Matthew Vaughn in which he reflects on the creation of the movie and its legacy. Still Kicking Ass: A new 20-minute piece in which the stunt team for the movie discusses pulling off the action in the film. The Work Of Art: A new 13-minute featurette with comic creator Mike Millar in which he discusses the creation and inspiration for the original comic. Physical Media Kicks Ass: A nearly two-minute new excerpt from the Matthew Vaughn interview in which he discusses the importance of physical media on his young life. A New Kind of Superhero – The Making of Kick-Ass: An extensive four-part documentary clocking in at an impressive 1 hour and 53 minutes which details the creation of the film from the initial development of the source material through production and release. There are a vast array of interviews with the cast and crew that delve into the shooting of the stunts, the rendering of the special effects, the scoring of the film and much more. It is difficult to imagine any questions you have about the film would not be covered in this deep dive. It's On! The Comic Book Origin of Kick-Ass: A 21-minute piece that takes a closer look at the source material with a specific focus on the story and artwork as detailed by the creative team. Theatrical Trailer: A two-and-a-half-minute trailer for the film is provided here. Redband Hit Girl Trailer: The minute-long NSFW trailer focusing on Hit Girl is provided here. Final Thoughts Kick-Ass was a breath of fresh air when it debuted a decade and a half ago, and in most ways it still holds up as a supremely fun addition to the superhero genre. While some of the attempts at humor are a bit dated, there is still much to laugh and plenty of hard-hitting action to thrill you. The performances are pretty fantastic all around, and it is wild to see where some of these performers have ended up in the intervening years. Lionsgate Home Entertainment has released the 4K UHD Blu-Ray in a stunning SteelBook package that collectors will love. The disc itself struggles a bit in the video department, but the audio presentation is top notch and the new and archival special features are very in depth. If you are a fan of the film, this is a solid release overall. Recommended Kick-Ass is currently available to purchase on 4K UHD Blu-Ray in Limited Edition 15th Anniversary Steelbook Packaging through Lionsgate Limited. Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the 4K UHD Blu-Ray. Disclaimer: Lionsgate Home Entertainment has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.
