IRON MAN 2 (REVIEW)
It
is rare for a sequel to surpass the original film and even less likely if it is
a superhero film, 'Dark Knight' being the exception. Albeit much darker with serious
tones and cynical, I am happy to announce that I am still buzzing from the exhilaration
of 'Iron Man 2'.
A solid follow up to the surprise hit from
two years ago that delivers everything you would expect, and then some, from a
Hollywood blockbuster. There is more of a focus on the story side of things and
less action sequences. But when the combat hostilities kick in, sparks fly. Literally.
Picking
up six months after Ironman's true identity was revealed in the finale of the
first film, Robert Downey Jr. returns as megalomaniac Tony Stark. Under constant
pressure from the Government to divulge secrets to the construction of his now
famous armoured suit, he simply won't agree in case the information falls into
the wrong hands. Unknown to others, Stark's body is now in turmoil, reacting to
blood toxicity of the suit leading him into the beginnings of mental instability.
Seeing himself as a man of the people and preacher of peace, it's really just
a distraction from a tormented vitality within.
Enter, Ivan
Vanko, a deranged Russian physicist with a long simmering grudge against Stark.
He barely speaks unless he has something almighty to say and will be soon known
as Whiplash after unveiling a pair of electrical infused cat' o' nine tails that
can slice a car in half. Stark recieves more alibi's this time around, including
military colleague and friend James Rhodes. In a scene of repent, he feels the
need to borrow a spare suit for himself to become 'War Hammer'.
A
defence contractor (Sam Rockwell), desperate for his own suit, feels the need
to employ Vanko to build the ultimate fighting device. However, when these two
bottom feeders come together, things don't gel. Also on the scene is acrobatic
super spy Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) looking magnificent high-kicking in
black latex. This polished assassin gets the attention of both stark and his girl
Friday assistant, Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow).
There is
much effective humour present but not enough to distract from the apprehensive
proceedings. Visually, the film is outstanding, none more so than the carnage
inflicted upon the Monte Carlo grand Prix by Whiplash. There are less fight scenes
than one may expect, however, the battle royale towards the end that has Ironman
way outnumbered is impressive and a perfect example that 3D effects are NOT needed.
Looking
flash with a sculpted beard, Downey Jr. seems to be relishing the role of Tony
Stark, successfully using charm and wit to mould his character into at least three
personalities. It's no surprise that Mickey Rourke is so effective as technological
freak Ivan Vanko. His evil smirks, maniacal chuckle is subtle and powerful, making
him irresistible to watch.
Unlike the original, there is no
extra scene tacked on after the end credits, but fans will be happy to note that
an appearance from eye patch wearing Samuel L. Jackson all but enhances an up-coming
'Avengers' film which fill feature multiple superheroes.
Last
word to rock giants AC/DC who feature prominently on the soundtrack, only enhancing
what is a cinematic guilty pleasure.
Shane A. Bassett
