Iron Man (2008)

I have to admit that I am not quite the comic book expert that my husband is; therefore I was not at all familiar with the character of Tony Stark, aka Iron Man, prior to the recent release of the new Iron Man film. However, I definitely recognize a well-made, entertaining movie when I see one. The last movie that I sat through that was equally entertaining and action-packed was Michael Bay's live-action Transformers movie released in 2007.

This year's Iron Man movie is not director Jon Favreau's directorial debut but it is bound to catapult his world-wide recognition as a director. Previous large screen works that Jon Favreau has directed include Zathura (2005), Elf (2003), and Made (2001); he has also directed a few television movies and series' episodes. The enormous success of Iron Man has to be a major boost to both Favreau's credibility and his clout (and I'm sure it doesn't hurt his ego any, either).

Iron Man (2008) features an absolutely stellar all star cast, including the talents of Robert Downey, Jr. in the role of Tony Stark/Iron Man; Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Pots, Stark's long-time personal assistant; Terrence Howard as Jim Rhodes, Stark's military friend (and the future War Machine); and a bald Jeff Bridges as Obadiah Stane, the recognized villain who becomes Iron Monger. Jon Favreau himself can be seen in the film as a small supporting character named Hogan.

The story line of this year's Iron Man film release begins by introducing you to Tony Stark, the wealthy industrialist genius who designs and manufactures military weapons. After a life-threatening incident involving the corrupt use of weapons he has designed he ultimately decides to use his technology to fight against evil forces and protect innocents who have been harmed by the devastating effect of acts of war.

I was originally a little surprised by the casting of Robert Downey, Jr, in the leading role of Tony Stark, but Downey's performance exceeding any expectations that I had for this film. He looks the look, walks the walk, and talks the talk of Stark's character from start to finish. The film's other starring cast members are equally convincing in their various roles, bringing a very cohesive feeling to the production as a whole.

If you go see this film take the time to stay through to the end of the credits as you will be rewarded with a sneak glimpse into the future of the Iron Man films which are sure to follow. The film runs a little long if you plan on taking younger children with you, so the length combined with the PG-13 rating might convince you to leave the little ones at home for this action-packed sci-fi adventure. For everyone else who loves to be entertained, this film is a much watch! We look forward to the future films featuring Iron Man and his supporting cast of characters.