Justin Afifi - Iron Man

Directed by: Jon Favreau

“Iron Man” is the big screen adaptation of the comic book hero of the same name. The film follows Tony Stark, a playboy weapon’s dealing wiz kid who is taken prisoner by terrorists after presenting his newest weapon, the Jericho missile. Stark is captured and told that the only way out is to recreate the missile for the terrorist group, “the ten rings.” While captured Stark comes face to face with the violence he’s caused making weapons and looks to make amends for his mistakes. Thus, Iron Man is born. As Iron Man, Stark attempts to take down any threats and become the hero that the world needs.

The film was driven by Robert Downey Jr. who has seemingly resurrected his career in the span of two hours. Every second he’s on screen you can’t help but be drawn into his portrayal of Tony Stark. Stark’s wit, charm, and arrogance are a perfect fit for Downey Jr as he is truly Tony Stark personified. The film also brings an A-list supporting cast. Gwenyth Paltrow (Pepper Potts), Terrance Howard (James Rhodes), and Jeff Bridges (Obadiah Stane) do exactly what they’re supposed to in the roles of love interest, best friend, and villain respectively. Nobody can steal the show from Downey though. Even when each of said actors are at their best Downey throws in a one liner that steals the scene.

Jon Favreau steps into the spotlight as a blockbuster type director having previously helmed films like Elf and Zathura. Favreau appeases every fan boy with his numerous references to the comics and other mediums. Whether it’s the Iron Man ringtone on Rhodes’ phone or the obvious parallels to Robocop and Batman Begins, Favreau knows his audience and he respects them enough to have fun with them. Apart from appeasing to the fans Favreau creates a dynamite setting for a comic book movie. He presents an understanding and love for the material that’s only rivaled by Christopher Nolan and his Batman universe.

Iron Man stands out as one of the best comic book adaptations of all time. It exhibits a tone that balances fun and maturity perfectly which helps the film find a bigger audience than the dark and gritty Dark Knight or Sin City.