Iron Man

Shame on me;  I've reviewed many superhero movies to date, but I've missed some of the 'core' films in the genre.  I start to rectify that here.

Released in 2008, Iron Man is the origin tale of the title hero (and, incidentally, kicked off Phase 1 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe).  In it, we see Tony Stark go from self-absorbed hedonist to hero intent on using his genius and fortune for good.  The catalyst to his transformation was being captured and held hostage by terrorists, almost losing his life to shrapnel, and learning that his captors had somehow obtained his Stark Industry weapons.  As Tony develops his new persona, he learns that another threat may in fact be controlling the terrorists- a threat that may cost him his life.

The movie was well-received, and deservedly so.  The pacing is good, as is the acting (Robert Downey Jr. is amazing), effects, and overall premise.  The humor is especially good, and makes for an entertaining ride.  Featuring more story and less action than recent Marvel films, I found watching this a refreshing change of pace from the modern overstuffed superhero offerings.

Rating: A