Iron Man 3 Review

I am going to go back and review all the movies I saw this summer. In case you missed that blockbuster that you wanted to see, stay tuned to the blog for reviews of this year's summer movie season. I will start with Iron Man 3, since I think it was the film that really kicked off this summer at the movies. 

We all knew that The Avengers was going to be a tough act to follow. It would have been impossible to make a movie of that caliber based on only one of the characters. However, Marvel's choice to go back to the guy who started it all for them, Tony Stark, was a smart one. After all, his solo films have earned more money than each of the other characters' outings. And, who doesn't love Robert Downey Jr.'s portrayal of Stark? No one, that's who. But, does this solo Iron Man movie stand up with the previous ones? Yes it does. 

Once again, Downey Jr. is brilliant in the role of Tony Stark. He's just as hilariously care free and quick-witted as he's always been. The central relationship between Stark and this little kid (no spoilers) is one of the best, if not the best part about Iron Man 3. They generate some big laughs, and even some true emotion together, and the interaction between the pair is always entertaining. Jon Favreau, who directed the first two Iron Man films, stepped down as director for the third, but reprised his role of Happy Hogan, who's as lovable and funny as always. 

Guy Pearce plays Aldrich Killian, who you start to suspect is a bad guy shortly after he appears on screen. He does well enough in the role, though his performance isn't anything to rave about. Ben Kingsley, of course, is The Mandarin, who is the film's main antagonist. He does a commendable job handling what the script throws at him. That's all I will say about that. 

The film is directed by Shane Black, the man behind the 2005 action-comedy Kiss Kiss Bang Bang (also starring Robert Downey Jr.). He brings a fast-paced humor that was present in the previous Iron Man flicks, but is even more prominent in this one. The film is extremely witty, and often times hilarious. It's great when you can say that about a comic book movie. The film is also very exciting, and the action is, at times, stunning. It contains very impressive special effects that don't overwhelm your screen. 

Iron Man 3 also attempts to humanize Tony Stark's out-of-this-world personality, and largely succeeds. We see him go through some real trials, and it's nice to see that from a character such as Stark. 

There is one thing about the film that should be said. Towards the end of it, the movie contains a twist involving a major character that is truly shocking. It is very unlikely that you will see it coming. I'm trying to be sensitive for those who have yet to see it, but just prepare yourself for something really unexpected. Many will dislike it, but others, including me, will be able to look past it and still enjoy the film. 

Conclusion

Iron Man 3 is an exciting, witty, thoroughly entertaining superhero movie that stands as one of Marvel's finest films. Robert Downey Jr. is as dependably appealing as ever, and Shane Black's direction brings a new energy to the franchise. A must-see for Marvel fans, comic book fans, and movie fans alike.

Rating: 9/10

Age suggestion: 13+