Viewed in
2008
Premise
Based on the comic series about a weapons maker turned super hero.
Who should watch
Fans of Robert Downey Jr. Comic books fans.
Thoughts
While it was not the cream of the crop comic book movies, I found it entertaining and surprisingly funny.
My favorite parts of the film were Robert Downey Jr and the dialogue. Director Jon Favreau was known for witty exchanges, and there was plenty of funny banter between characters. It kind of had an old school style of dialogue, in which words jump off the screen.
In addition, the acting was very strong. Downey was perfectly cast for the charismatic playboy Tony Stark. I actually liked him better outside the suit than inside. Gwyneth Paltrow was very good as Stark's assistant by title, but his emotional equal. A very pleasant surprise was Jeff Bridges as profit hungry businessman. I was used to seeing him as The Dude from 'Big Lebowski', so his versatility was shocking and enthralling.
I'd have to say the weakest part was the action. There was a decent amount of computer graphics of flying weapons and big explosions. However, it never felt as exciting. Partly because there was no serious enemies, and it was an origins story. Nevertheless, I would rather have strong writing with weaker action than the vice versa.
Lastly, people familiar with the Marvel universe should stick around past the credits to get a nice little cookie.
What I would change
Used a more generic setting instead of Afghanistan in the 2000's, it seems relevant today, but it makes it really easy to out-date the film.
