Amazing action scenes, big explosions, and stellar acting is what you will find in this summer's blockbuster, Iron Man 2. The combination of a well rounded script and amazing special affects take the movie to the next level, dynamically living up to all its pre-release hype.
With his identity as Iron Man fully known to the public, Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr) becomes the center of attention"¦again. His "Iron Man" technology is sought after once again, this time by the United States Federal Government, his company's rival Hammer Industries, and a vengeful Russian named Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke). As the movie proceeds, Stark's "party hard" lifestyle begins to trouble even his closest friends, opening the door to an easy takeover. Stark's longtime friend James "Rhodey" Rhodes (Don Cheadle) joins him in the battle, piloting his own Mark II armor. They will be pushed to the brink of death while fighting for survival, and unlike other comic book adaptations, the ending is anything but clear in this survival of the fittest, machine war story.
Going into Iron Man 2, I had high expectations. The notion that it would be this summer's blockbuster hit added to my excitement, not to mention my admiration for the 2008 original. Within the first few scenes I knew that this movie was going to be very entertaining as it cleverly mixed both action and comedy into one easy-flowing story.
The movie had a host of famous faces. Robert Downey Jr. continued his portrayal of Tony Stark, highlighting the film at nearly every turn. His performance here was even better than the original, and I credit that to his deeper understanding of Spark. He doesn't hesitate to make you laugh, and more times than not, he beats you straight to the punch. Mickey Rourke combats Downey well as the hardened, Russian villain, Ivan Vanko. Surprisingly, Sam Rockwell's performance as Justin Hammer was one of the best in show. His acting elevated the character's somewhat geeky appearance into someone who, by the end of the movie, would play a major roll as Iron Man's future enemy.
Don't worry, the females were also well represented. Returning from the original is Gwyneth Paltrow, who digs deeper into the life and habits of 'Pepper' Potts. In this movie, Potts goes from being Stark's right hand women, to the CEO of his company. Taking over as Tony Stark's new assistant is Natalie Rushman (Scarlett Johansson). Johansson plays her role as the new assistant quite well. Her acting is convincing and her style as the sexy S.H.E.L.D. agent Natasha Romanoff is un-matched by any other starlet.
While the script and the acting help make the movie a legitimate film, the special affects will make it a huge summer success, allowing the audience to feel that they are really in the shot. The sound affects in the movie also add to its appeal, warranting a ton of credit to those working the switchboards.
From the new and improved Iron Man suit to the final battle scene with Vanko, Iron Man 2 does not disappoint. Director John Favreau once again brings to life the story of Tony Stark, giving movie fans everywhere a must watch film for the summer season. This film is a great kick off to the summer movie season, warranting both the hype and the price for admission.
