Iron Man
It’s nice to see a good SOLID comic book movie come out and do well, as this so obviously is. The real story of course is the massive and now completed comeback of Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark. Starting off as he did in frothy light comedies of the late 80s, the man proceeded to stun the world with his incredible performance in Chaplin, a role that should have won him the Oscar had the Academy not given it to a mediocre Pacino shoutfest. Then came the drug problems, and it seemed Downey fell so far he might never recover, but, finally he picked himself back up and worked his way back into the business and now, is solidly back on the A list for good. His Stark is arrogant yet likable, brilliant yet down to earth, and truly makes this movie a must-see. Paltrow also does well as Pepper Potts, Howard plays an obvious sidekick role in anticipation of his character’s future in the franchise, and of course there is Jeff Bridges, perhaps one of the best ever at being effortless when it comes to bringing life to his roles. However, it is one of the film’s few flaws: We ALL know Stane is the main villain going into the film, yet the story dawdles a bit much before his sinister nature takes center stage. Bridges comes off as genuinely evil and frightening when that time comes. There are some points where director Favreau seems to stretch credibility a bit (particularly when Stark and others absorb impacts that should break every bone in their body and instead walk away unscathed), and the middle part of the film after he returns from Afghanistan drags somewhat as he figures out his life’s mission. However, the action scenes are incredibly well-shot and satisfying, with the snippets of hard rock / metal music being the icing on the cake. And the press conference at the end is great and sets the mood well for the sequel (as well as the cameo after the credits). All in all, some great fun, and everything should be coming up roses for Downey’s career from now on…
8/10