by Lundberg - May 9, 2010 - - 1 Comment »
I am in love with what Marvel is doing. They are creating a continuity. They are establishing a film version of their universe. Essentially, they are putting comic books on-screen. And much like with “real” comic books, every issue is different and some are more important (or just better) than others.
The initial Iron Man flick captured the imagination of the audience for a few reasons (in my opinion of course…my opinion counts here). One, Tony Stark was tailor made for movie audiences and Robert Downey Jr. absolutely owned the role. That doesn’t change in the sequel. The character still rules and I can’t imagine anyone else playing it now. Two, the origin story was essential to the plot development. The audience could clearly understand why Stark built the Iron Man suit. “Iron Man 2″ lacks that genuine build up. Three, it was the most realistic looking super hero movie. Everything that happens on film felt like it could be happening in reality. The sequel keeps that alive.
Two out of three ain’t bad. While “Iron Man 2″ is not quite as compelling as its predecessor, it is still a ton of fun. And the payoff in this movie is greater than the climatic battle in the first. Good performances (Downey Jr. owns, Sam Rockwell also shines as Justin Hammer and Mickey Rourke brings interest to a mundane character)? Check. Good action (War Machine’s introduction, the final battle and especially Scarlett Johansson’s Black Widow shine)? Check. Respect for the source material (Captain America, Thor and S.H.I.E.L.D. provide fanboy eye candy)? Check.
“Iron Man 2″ will be unfairly compared to the first film. It is very difficult to replicate the magic of capturing a character perfectly initially. But that doesn’t mean this movie isn’t a success. Just like comic books, each Marvel movie should be viewed as a different issue. This one is really fun, breezes by and sets up the future without feeling weighty.
Avengers assemble! (I can’t believe they are actually pulling this off.)
Totally agree. And Favreau is becoming one of my favorite directors these days. They guy just makes fantastic movies.