Not Just Superhero Schlock

About a month ago, I highlighted Jon Favreau's latest endeavor "Iron Man," claiming it would be the next good film among myriad of second rate superhero flotsam.  Though I may have been a little extreme in my hype-building, after finally getting to see it this weekend I can safely say it was worth my time and most importantly, almighty dollar.

Let's get the bad news out of the way first.  Yes, as you may have guessed, the film did err on the superficial side.  And, who couldn't notice the fact that the film blatantly preys on America's fear of terrorism/terrorists to drive the plot.  This felt much like "Dr. Strangelove" although I don't think this one was satirical.  Finally, the film is much of what you would expect from a big-budget summer-blockbuster superhero flick.

Here's the good news:  These criticisms aside, you still have a wildly entertaining flick with some killer CGI/practical effects and amazing sound.

The story-line is passable, nothing too exciting or mind-blowing but it has enough momentum to keep you interested till the climax.  The acting is well done.  Robert Downey Jr. makes this movie what it is.  And hey, it was a nice surprise to see Jeff Bridges in the mix as well.

But, the visuals are downright stunning.  I found myself wondering what was CG and what was real during many parts of the film - especially just after the Iron Man suit is put on Downey Jr..  The line between 3D and real life is masterfully blurred by Favreau's effort to incorporate practical effects whenever possible.

Most surprisingly, the sound engineering was brilliant in the film.  When the "Iron Man" suit is systematically placed on Downey Jr. by his handy dandy shop-bots, each piece and part cranks and clicks realistically.  Even the action-packed fight sequences are a joy to listen to as they utilize full 360 degree sound.  Make sure you catch this one in the theater for the full effect.

My one wish was that Favreau expanded on the idea that Stark's magnetic chest-plate was really a metaphor for not only his vitality, but also his heart and soul; a metaphor for his struggle between stone-cold business man and humanitarian superhero.  While I think this idea is hinted at, we never really see Stark's internal conflict.

If your looking for a fun trip to the theaters in the next couple of weeks, I suggest you make the trip to see "Iron Man."  It has it's flaws, and it doesn't truly break any boundaries (as say "Spider Man 2"), but it's a solid effort and wholly entertaining (critics agree!).  It's good for a date movie or an outing with the guys; there's something for everyone here.

P.S. - Stay after the credits for a little surprise.

(Photo taken from - www.comicvine.com)