Movie reviews: Iron Man

One of the most hyped movies of the 2008 was Iron Man, and it did not disappoint. Released the start of May 2008 Iron Man is based on the comic book series of the same name from Marvel comics. The casting and special effects were both right on the money. This is a must-see movie that all ages will enjoy.

Actors - 5/5

One of the hardest parts of bringing a comic book to life is finding someone to play the lead roles. Everyone who has read those comics for years has their own ideas of how the heroes and villains should look and act. The casting for Iron Man was top notch. Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark as both a very convincing drunk playboy (go figure?) as well as a workaholic inventor. His carefree detachment with the first and the intensity of the second make this a great performance. His right hand man, Randy Rhodes, is played by Terrance Howard who does a very good job with a character who alternately has to deal with everyone around Tony Stark, and often deal with Tony himself as well. Tony's assistant, Miss Pepper Potts, is played by Gwyneth Paltrow and is the perfect always there in the background type of character. She doesn't seem like a big part at first, but you will be surprised as things unfold! The villain of the movie is Obadiah Stane, played by Jeff Bridges. He is convincing as a self-serving, stop at nothing businessman who wants everything for himself.

Location and scenery - 4/5

Iron Man is shot on a number of locations, all of which seem absolutely normal in the context of the story. Very little note is paid to names of places, which is much as it is in the comics themselves. From the big city lights of the playboy billionaire circuit, to the weapons testing zone in the desert, and even the workshop at Tony Stark's home all the locations are well chosen. The filming gives you the feeling at times like you are right there in the action along with them.

Fight scenes and effects - 4.5/5

As with most super hero movies, it takes a while to get into the real action. But since Tony Stark invents weapons you can guess that things will get exciting before long. The special effects and choreography of the fights is very well done. The plot takes the time to build up to the major events so you are not left wondering what's happening. From the experiments in Tony's lab with his robotic assistants, to the climatic battle with his worst enemy, it all just works - like there are no effects at all.

Story and plot development - 4/5

The fans of the comic book will immediately point out the changes to the origins of Iron Man. But the story stays on track, moves along at a good pace, and involves all the characters. As with most Marvel comic to movie plots, it's not overly complex but it's just a good story.

Overall rating - 4.5/5

Iron Man was a box office hit with good reason. It should be on the top of your list of movies to see if you haven't, or see again if you already have.

Learn more about this author, David B Hitchcock.
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