Become a Superhero - Kick-Ass / Defendor / Super

Become a Superhero - 'The Kick-Ass / Defendor' Revolution

'I always wondered why nobody did it before me, I mean, all those comic books, movies, TV shows. You'd think that one eccentric loner would have made themselves a costume. I mean, is everyday life really so exciting? Are schools and offices really so thrilling that I'm the only one who's ever fantasized about this? C'mon, be honest with yourself. At some point in our lives, we all wanted to be a superhero.' - Kick-Ass Quote.

And you've got to admit that the idea is a tempting one. To get up out of your chair, to stop simply moaning about the evils that go on outside of your window, turn the television off, don a snazzy mask and costume, and then go outside and make this world a safer place both for yourself, and for those around you.

Real Life Superheros

Becoming a Superhero

Whilst the classic superhero movies and comics we've grown up with have all stressed the importance of possessing 'special abilities' such as those bestowed upon Peter Parker via radioactive spider bite, or the rare genetic mutations of the X-Men in order to class yourself as a superhero the recent wave of 'real' superhero movies has blown this misconception away. Daring us all to step up, and fulfill our masked vigilante fantasies.

Both 'Kick-Ass' and 'Defendor' essentially follow the same plot. An unlikely and otherwise unexceptional individual crosses the line between fantasy and reality, to become the hero that they've always wanted to be. And whilst the lesson is clear to all who would choose to follow in their footsteps that you are going to take a severe beating, and most likely get killed in your attempts, ultimately, as the message of both movies demonstrates perfectly, an individual with their energies channeled towards a greater good really can make a difference.

Become a Masked Avenger

Whilst not all superheros wear a mask the majority do, and with good reason. Because in order to be able to perform the sort of duties necessary of the masked avenger, the superheros everyday persona must be kept secret, in order to avoid both interference from the likes of the press and police and/or retaliation by criminal masterminds and nemesis either against yourself or more importantly against your loved ones.

And in addition to keeping your friends and family safe the superhero mask depending upon your successes and notoriety may also become symbolic over time, and act as a tool through which to strike fear into the hearts of all those who should rightly be scared when your path they cross.

The Superhero Utility Belt

This is a necessity for anybody wishing to become a superhero, because whilst the gadgets and gizmo's may vary depending upon the hero in question, every superhero needs a place to store their gadgets and keep them close to hand.

Superhero Gadgets

So now with utility belt strapped firm around your waist, and lacking in special abilities as you most likely are, you may find it beneficial to fill those pouches and pockets with Batman-esque toys.  Electronic devices and crime fighting playthings, designed to aid you in your quest to make the streets once again a safe place to walk.

Real Life Superheros

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Superbario

Real Life Superheros

Whether it's a case of life imitating art or art imitating life, should you decide to follow the path that leads to becoming a superhero then you'll be in good company (of sorts), because you would not be the first. The photos (right) are of 'real life superheros', those who have stepped up to the challenge, and taken it upon themselves to do what they can to make their communities safer places to live.

Meet 'Superbarrio', a real-life Mexican caped crusader, folk hero, and champion of the down-trodden. And 'Mr. Silent', who lurks the darkened walkways of Indianapolis, seeking out those in distress to lend a helping hand. Just two of this assorted mish-mash of real-life masked avengers.

Becoming a Superhero - Summary

If you've made it this far then by now you're probably thinking that at least one of us is crazy. Either me for being irresponsible enough to encourage you in such foolhardy enterprise, or yourself for entertaining the idea that you just might go through with it.

So whilst it's important to remind any would be superhero of the physical and psychological dangers they will no doubt face, it's also important to applaud them. Because as 'Edmund Burke' rightfully stated "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

I wish you luck. ;)