Iron Man Lives Again!

Wait, wait wait.  Now, I know exactly what you are thinking:  "But "Iron Man" is a.) a super-hero movie, b.) definitely not independent or not well known, and c.) probably not worth our time."  Well, just hang on a minute there hot-shot.

Jon Favereau's newest film "Iron Man" is due out in theaters this May and personally, I'm pretty pumped (and for me to be pumped about a super-hero flick says a lot).  Favereau is known for his direction in such movies as "Elf," "Zathura," and "Made."

For those who aren't well versed in the world of comics, here's the skinny on the comic aspect of this metal-clad juggernaut.  "Iron Man" was originally a comic created by famous comic book artist Stan Lee.  Iron Man's human counterpart, Tony Stark, built the Iron Man suit to save and sustain his life after a devastating injury.  Due to the nature of the suit, i.e. it's strong and gives him some "super human powers," he decides to fight crime.  The only catch is that earlier in life Stark was forced to create another suit for his nemesis Jim Rhodes.  From this conflict stems much of the series' action and plot.

This movie has an all-star cast as well as some names you might not expect.  Robert Downy Jr. lends his talent to the role of "Iron Man/Tony Stark" and Terrance Howard is playing "Jim Rhodes."  I was pleasantly surprised to find that Jeff Bridges will be playing the part of "Obadiah Stane/Iron Monger."  Bridges has, of late, been primarily acting in smaller independent roles, so this will be a big change for him.

And now for the good stuff, more specifically point "a"  What has me so excited for "Iron Man" is the fact that Favereau allegedly used practical effects whenever possible (Canmag.com).  Obviously, when Iron Man is soaring over the Californian skies, practical effects aren't so practical.  But, for the little things that make the cinematic world believable, it should make all the difference.  Favereau says that he "looks to use CGI in a subtle way that does not take you out of the movie."

As for point "b," there's no way of getting around the fact that this movie will be a summer blockbuster.  There is, however, some hope for this film.  According to IMDB, Favereau shot this film from an "independent" perspective.  He also name dropped "Batman Begins" as an influence for the film.  Just keep your fingers crossed.

And now for point "c."  As for now, "Iron Man" looks as though it will be shaping up as the premier super-hero movie of 2008.  It has gorgeous special effects, top notch talent, and good direction to boot.  Here's hoping it turns out for the best.

Check back for more updates on "Iron Man," and be sure not to miss it in theaters this May 2nd.

Photo taken from www.toxicshock.tv.