Iron Man Movie Review

Iron Man is the best superhero movie ever made. I feel hesitant to give it that distinction because it's so recent, but it's undeniable. Millions of films are made each decade but every once in awhile direction, acting, music, script, and production come together in perfect harmony and precision. That is the case here.

Let's go over all the different elements that make this movie. Jon Favreau helms this film, and does an incredible job guiding everybody to give the absolute best effort they can. The writing credits are shared between four people, and all do a phenomenal job respecting the source material and crafting an extremely engaging story on all fronts.

The casting is amazing, featuring Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark in a meticulously crafted performance. From the pages to the screen, Robert Downey Jr.'s Stark is a spot on portrayal. Terence Howard doesn't get much screen time but amply shows the loyal but hardened Jim Rhodes. Jeff Bridges is menacing and clever as Obadiah Stane, the film's villain. Gwyneth Paltrow, an actress I don't normally enjoy, turns in an incredibly nuanced performance of great heart and emotion. All other actors showcase great work, proving that nothing was left to chance in terms for acting.

Music was memorable and featured very fitting original cuts as well as popular tunes like AC/DC's ''Back In Black'' and Black Sabbath's ''Iron Man''. Cinematography is excellent, showcasing long lens for desert shots and cityscapes for when Iron Man takes the skies. The editing in this film is, in a word, perfect. At two hours and six minutes, this film utilizes every single second to give you meaningful information that builds and comes to a conclusion. No scene or word is wasted, and it really shows as there's not a moment this movie drags or makes you feel restless.

The production design was also incredible. Stark's mansion comes to life and is sleekly designed and executed flawlessly. Stark Enterprises is a giant mechanical wonder, showcasing futuristic constructs of great care. The first half of the movie features gritty, rusty sets that really get you in the claustrophobic atmosphere Tony Stark is in.

Special effects, otherworldly. Iron Man is a movie that could not have been made without today's technology, but instead of using special effects as a crutch it becomes an art form. Iron Man's suit looks incredible and is animated with such care it pales other movie's effects in comparison.

Enough about this movie, if you have any kind of appreciation for film at all you will enjoy this movie. Ten out of ten.