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Iron Man 3

Iron Man 3: Review

Starring: Robert Downey Jr, Gwyneth Paltrow, Guy Pearce, Ben Kingsley, Stephanie Szostak, Don Cheadle (Rated M – 129 min)

The Avengers was the epic final phase in a series of linked movies based on Marvel’s Comic book universe. Iron Man 3 is the beginning of phase 2. Set after those volatile events that brought together the likes of Hulk, Thor and Captain America, Robert Downey Jr gives his winning personality another workout as the hard drinking, hard living and actually very hard working millionaire Tony Stark.

The US is rocked by various attacks orchestrated by a weird crafty and diabolical character only known as The Mandarin. Stark is still recovering from previous events and not much in the mood for another battle with evil doers, however, he has no choice when innocent lives are again at risk. All is forgiven for Ben Kingsley’s terrible performance as The Hood in the remake of Thunderbirds. Here he shows dark form as the mysterious Mandarin. He maintains the rage playing out a delightfully cruel personal vendetta against the legacy of Stark.

Loyal Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) has moved on from a mere sidekick love interest with a developing role that is very important to Stark, he needs her more than he may show. Romance is not put to one side during the explosive mayhem, they make the perfect couple. Australia’s own Guy Pearce makes an unusual presence as Aldrich Killian, looking slightly out of place at first. Keep a close eye on him as in the end you will know why he is in the mix.

Unification between Stark and good friend James Rhodes (Don Cheadle of Hotel for Dogs fame) better known as War Machine, stand together to face the current threat to mankind their biggest challenge yet. New characters are introduced which includes a child accomplice and some distinct plot twists that are sure to raise the excitement levels of fans. I do not want to spoil anything so be ready for anything. At risk of repeating himself, Downey Jr continues to give Tony Stark intellect to match the powers he obtains wearing metal suit. Amusing quips in any situation never fail to gain a laugh.

The action is eventful and entertaining, but don’t be fooled by the lighter tone, many sudden shocks come out of nowhere keeping the erratic nature of the plot intact. By the end credits, the audience may be counting the days until ‘Thor 2: The Dark World’ due out later this year. Of course the creator of Marvel Comics, Stan Lee, makes his usual cameo. Just another memorable moment in this great film.

© Shane A. Bassett

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