Iron Man 2 (2010)

Iron Man 2

• This certainly doesn't touch the first Iron Man film, and in some ways, it's just a rehashing, but it's still fun and has some great action. It's definitely not the same as the first, but it basically builds on those ideas, just with a new villain and other characters. The biggest reason (to me) that this is a step down is because it doesn't feel like a lot happens. Whereas the first film slowly builds Stark and Iron Man, this one takes the idea of Iron Man and just redoes the "close to death" thing. In some ways, it's good for Tony's character, because it's fun to watch him almost die, but basically never from a physical villain. It's also a way to have side characters step more in focus to help him. Such as Rhodes, who came in to be the voice of reason for Tony, and I loved his character. Speaking of which, let's talk about War Machine. I absolutely LOVE War Machine’s look, and the silver/gray model of the iron suit was freaking beautiful. It had such a sharp look to it, and I actually prefer it over the regular gold/maroon look. Especially once you strap that machine gun on the shoulder..... it makes me want to cry. But anyways, the plot itself feels a bit empty in a few ways, and though the action is always fun, everything in between might feel like a drag to some. It's good but not great. The cast is solid this time around, and I'll always enjoy RDJ and Sam Rockwell in anything they're in. The characters themselves are just whatever, but fun (and sometimes dorky) performances. Plus, bringing in Natasha gets your blood pumping in any scene she's in. Lastly, the score provides some fun juice towards the end, and the CGI is pretty good all around. Overall, this film is a step down, and it still has its fun moments, but it can definitely feel average. I'd still recommend it to most MCU/superhero fans.