Kick-Ass 2

One of the most recognizable, versatile and respected Latino actors is a vital part of the most anticipated sequels of 2013, Kick-Ass 2. John Leguizamo joins the young stars of the refreshing first movie, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Chloë Grace Moretz, and Christopher Mintz-Plasse. The Colombian-born talent talked to Desde Hollywood about comic-book movies, the cast of this action comedy, his desire to working with Jim Carrey and much more.

Desde Hollywood: What did you like the most about the first Kick-Ass?

John Leguizamo: The sweet coming of age story juxtapose with the violence. I enjoyed that the violence was real and with consequences. Not like most comic-book movies where nothing is real, and more like a video game.

Desde Hollywood: And Nicolas Cage proved that a comic-book movie can let you shine as an actor. Right?

Leguizamo: I am not sure about that. Most comic-book movies have wooden archetypes even when the actors are amazing. Kick-Ass is more about kids’ stories, bulling and real issues. So you can shine and do some real acting.

Kick-Ass 2

Desde Hollywood: A character like Javier allowed you to do something different. Correct?

Leguizamo: I had fun doing that. I am the family body guard and then Christopher Mintz-Plasse’s parents die and I become like his guardian. That was an interesting kind of relationship, one that I haven’t done before.

Desde Hollywood: You’ve worked with iconic actors. How big do you think Chloë, Aaron and Chris will become?

Leguizamo: Oh man. I think they will be incredible huge. They are so young, talented and professional.

Kick-Ass 2

Desde Hollywood: I imagine that you and Jim Carrey would have a lot of things in common. Did you have a chance to spend some time together?

Leguizamo: No, we didn’t. All my scenes are with Chris. When I got to Canada he had already done his part. I thought I was going to see him in London but every time I got to the set he was already done.

Desde Hollywood: I would love to see you guys together in Dumb and Dumber To.

Leguizamo: That would be hilarious man. Me and Jim Carrey, that would be crazy. I don’t know if the cameras can take it!

Kick-Ass 2

Desde Hollywood: How important is for you to work with a director that welcomes improvisation?

Leguizamo: I love that. Even that Jeff Wadlow had to stay true to the comic-book, he created this character for me. I was very honored that he wrote that for me. He did let us improvise and have fun with it.

Desde Hollywood: How do you keep this balance between doing theater, a big studio movie and smaller Latino films?

Leguizamo: I love living my life and experiencing these choices that inspire me as an actor. I can do a Spanish speaking movie, I can do television where the best writing and acting is happening right now. Theater is a religious experience. I feel very lucky to be in a time when actors can go everywhere.

Desde Hollywood: What name would you pick for your own superhero or super villain?

Leguizamo: “Pain in the Ass”, that would be my name!

“Kick-Ass, Hit Girl and Red Mist return for the follow-up to 2010’s irreverent global hit: Kick-Ass 2. After Kick-Ass’ (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) insane bravery inspires a new wave of self-made masked crusaders, led by the badass Colonel Stars and Stripes (Jim Carrey), our hero joins them on patrol. When these amateur superheroes are hunted down by Red Mist (Christopher Mintz-Plasse)—reborn as The Mother F%&*^r—only the blade-wielding Hit Girl (Chloë Grace Moretz) can prevent their annihilation.”

Kick-Ass 2 hits theaters August 16.