4 1/2 Stars:
What a summer for blockbusters! The comic book movies in particular stood out. 2008 saw the release of the greatest comic book movie ever in “Iron Man,” then just two months later it was topped by “The Dark Knight.” Why were these movies so good? Why were all of the comic books movies so good this summer? My answer is cast and direction. Robert Downey Jr., Christian Bale, Jeff Bridges, Heath Ledger, Edward Norton, Terrence Howard, among others shined in the summer comic book movies this summer. Direction was what boosted these movies to another level, led by Jon Favreau, Chris Nolan and Guillermo del Toro.
“Iron Man” was released to DVD September 30th, 2008. Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark, a wealthy industrialist who’s forced to build an armored suit after an attack that left his life threatened. Of all the celebrities out there that have struggled with drug addiction, Robert Downey Jr. is the one that I don’t have a problem with no matter how many times he fucks up. In “Iron Man” he is as good as ever. Robert Downey Jr. had that charm and likeability that Paul Newman had (God rest his soul).
The remainder of the cast is brilliant as well. Jeff Bridges plays Obadiah Stane, Downey’s partner. Jeff Bridges is always fun to watch. He’s usually a scene stealer and “Iron Man” is no different. Terrence Howard plays Col. James Rhodes. Terrence Howard broke out in the Academy Award winning movie “Crash,” in which he was the only thing worth watching. I’m not familiar with the “Iron Man” comics, but I’m curious to see how Downey and Howard are paired in a sequel. Finally Gwyneth Paltrow rounds out the cast as Pepper Potts, Downey’s assistant.
This movie is a blast to watch. Not only is it a fun ride, but it is legitimately a good movie, not just a comic book movie. I mean it’s “Iron Man”… I had never heard of “Iron Man” prior to this movie. Granted I’m not a comic book guy, but “Iron Man,” the greatest comic book movie of all time (at least for awhile), over “Batman,” “Superman,” and “Spiderman?” If Favreau had directed Downey as “Dare Devil,” would that have been the best? This movie is flat out entertaining! I look forward to any potential sequels, but please don’t sequel this movie without bringing back the cast and Jon Favreau as director.
BYLINE:
Bob Zerull is a frequent movie and concert goer who talks about his ventures to arenas and theaters more than any person should be allowed to do. Now, he puts them down on paper.
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