Go See Iron Man

May 4, 2008 on 8:43 pm | In Comic Books, TV/Film/DVD |

By now you’ve probably heard of– if not seen– Iron Man, the newest super hero film abot a Marvel Comics hero (and the first film from Marvel Studios). The basic plot, as described on most sites is “Robert Downey Jr. stars as Tony Stark, a billionaire industrialist and genius inventor who builds a high-tech suit of armor to escape captivity” though there’s much more to the film than that. In a nutshell, this is an action-packed film with superb acting, a thrilling plot (that does have a few speed bumps) and is really one of the few adult super hero films in some time (the other than comes to mind is Batman Begins).

Let’s begin with the special effects. This is a film that begs to be seen on the big screen because of the dazzling visuals, which amazingly enough, never draw you out of the film. Sure, you’re watching people in high tech armor battle it out, but it all looks very real. When Iron Man soars in the sky, you see him move in a very realistic way complete with the appropriate additions on his armor to show just how he’d cope with these fast speeds and turning quickly at high speeds. Little details, like the complicated process of putting on his armor to the often humorous results of the armor development process, make Stark’s transformation into Iron Man seem completely plausible.

Now, onto the the rest of the film, which is similarly excellent. Tony Stark has always been an atypical hero not only because he’s an alcoholic and not much a nice guy, but because his transformation into super hero happens later in his life. He’s not Spider-Man, going through changes in high school, or Batman, nursing childhood anger that will transform him later in life. For Tony Stark, it’s coming face to face with his own choices, and their inherent consequences, that forces him to change. Add in stellar performances from a top notch cast, plotting that doesn’t waste a minute with a surprisingly mature ending and you’ve got the reason why Iron Man set the box-office on fire this weekend.

I’m keeping this short because I don’t want to spoil much for anyone, but make sure to check out this film. Don’t like super heroes? Don’t worry– this isn’t your typical super hero film. It’s a fascinating look at a man realizing what he’s meant to do by confronting the sins of his hubris and trying to embrace his nobler intentions, all wrapped up in an exciting action film.

Here’s a look at the trailer if you need further convincing: