Iron Man (2008) - User Reviews

Iron-man was pretty much guaranteed to be an iron-clad success when it was released, so it was always going to be interesting to see if the film lived up to the hype - it is often that superhero movies leave us feeling like they could have been better. This is probably because we all came up with our own version of what the superheroes were like when reading the comics.
The Iron-man's story is based in contemporary times, with direct links to the war in Iraq, and themes which criticise the current American military-idustrial complex. It is the first time we have seen a comic book movie be so political, however it is a good idea - although it may put off some viewers! Unfortunately however, it is a tad unbelievable when Tony Stark is captured by Iraqi insurgents and manages to build the first prototype in a cave as a means of escape.
One of the most interesting aspects of this film was the actor chosen as the leading man, Robert Downey Jnr. Not your classic Hollywood hero, Downey is superbly cast as the egocentric millionare Tony Stark, who is also a mechanical genius, building the famous suit. Downey's confident, rich, and at times dark portrayal of the owner of an advanced weapons manufacturer, rightfully occupies the centre of this film. Downey is ably supported by Jeff Bridges, who is virtually unrecognisable minus his hair, cast as the villian Obadiah Stane. Stane builds his own iron suit, the evil (and much larger) Iron-monger. Other cast members of note include Gweneth Paltrow who plays assistant love interest Pepper Potts. Paltrow is completely constrained by a script which subordinates her in this one-dimensional role.
Of course one of the major talking points was always going to be the visuals, and the CGI really hits the mark. The animation is smooth and realistic, and really brings the Iron Man to life.
Overall this movie was good entertainment; the only thing that lets it down is a long-winded begining, and Downey's relationship with Pepper Potts which is just kinda cliched. I must admit that I am a little annoyed by many of the current crop of movies turning comic books into the big screen. The producers and directors know that these films are going to be hits, and I just get the feeling they don't try quite as hard as they might. However, that being said, I would recommend having a look at the cinema, not sure if i'd buy the DVD though.

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