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)

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.