Awesome Superhero Flicks of 2010

Superhero movies typically coincide with the action, fantasy, and sci-fi genres because their audio-visual elements often include heroic characters with superpowers coming from supernatural, scientific, or technological sources. They also feature glossy production values, demanding CGI effects, and intricate makeup and costuming. For the 2010 superhero flicks that are best partnered with popcorn, the most memorable ones include "Iron Man 2," "TRON: Legacy," and "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time."

"Iron Man 2"

"Iron Man 2" continues the adventures of billionaire inventor and business tycoon Tony Stark and his superhero alter ego. After revealing Iron Man's identity by the end of the first movie, he fights against politicians' intent to have him hand over the Iron Man technology to the government. As the palladium in the arc reactor that keeps shrapnel from penetrating his heart is starting to poison his body, he needs to find a way to rescue himself from impending death. At the same time, a new enemy duplicates Stark's technology and builds weapons that challenge Iron Man, the military, and the world.

This second installment in the "Iron Man" franchise is a solid superhero flick. It has a few faults that can be typically overlooked for its charismatic performances, dynamic special effects, and action-packed plot. Overall, it is an enjoyable romp filled with fun characterization and cool action pieces.

"TRON: Legacy"

25 years after the original "TRON," "TRON: Legacy" brings back the light discs and light cycles that made the original a historical feat. It works as a follow-up to the first film and its presentation takes advantage of the current offerings of 3D cinema. This time Sam Flynn ends up inside the digital world his father, Kevin Flynn from the 1984 "TRON," has created.

To briefly describe "TRON: Legacy," it is a fine display of the visual power of light and the aural pomp of music and sound effects. It may be quite shallow in terms of story and characterization, but it still delivers the goods for its type of story and packaging. It clearly focuses on the technical merit of the production -- and succeeds on it.

"Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time"

"Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" utilizes an effective video game treatment inspired by its original source. It features the story of a young fugitive prince framed for the death of the king, who is also his foster father. After meeting a mysterious princess who safeguards an ancient dagger that allows the magic sand inside it to reverse time, they race against the evil forces who want to get hold of the powerful dagger.

This movie offers an epic showcase of audio-visual effects and choreographed fight and chase scenes. It works for its level as a suitably entertaining swashbuckler. It is finely made for the tastes of the fanboy gamer crowd and those who simply want to enjoy popcorn with an action-packed adventure movie.

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