Tom Lasusa: Iron Man

4 stars out of 5

Tom Lasusa, one of the most comics-savvy people I know, was kind enough to review Iron Man for me. I saw the film last week as well, and whole-heartedly endorse his view.

Saw Iron Man over the weekend. To be blunt, the hype lived up to the product. I don't think a comic book has been more accurately translated to the screen in...well, ever. Even Batman Begins, which I loved, strays off course in places. Iron Man however manages to keep just about everything from the character's core intact -- which has got to be pleasing to comic fans. At the same time, the story is so easily accessible for anyone, non comic fans can easily get sucked into the story.

Hearing Downey was cast as Stark was intriguing, because I've always liked him and hoped that he'd get past his personal issues to become the amazing actor I always knew he could be. Seeing the preview stills excited me -- the man looked Tony Stark. Seeing him in the previews all but cemented my hopes. Watching the movie -- there is no doubt that not a single other person could have played this role as effectively as he did.

Director Jon Favreau clearly respected the source material and in doing so, delivered across the board. He gave the cast the ability to write their own dialogue, sent Gwyneth Paltrow various comics so she could get a feel for the dynamic between Tony and Pepper. Citing Batman Begins as inspiration, Favreau chose to take a 'realistic' approach with the film, while at the same time acknowledging that this is a superhero universe, thereby pushing the believability envelope at the appropriate times when it felt like it made sense.

Favreau has already been rumored to helm the all-but-expected (and cleverly alluded to in a post-credits scene) Avengers movie and I can't think of a better choice. By then there should have already have been films of Captain America and Thor. Marvel has already said that they want to keep principal actors in the roles (hear that Warner Brothers with your abomination called "Justice League?") If he maintains the dedication, respect and excitement for that project that he did for Iron Man, then Favreau will have another massive hit on his hands.