Iron Man 2 - 9 stars out of 10

Iron Man 2 - 9 stars out of 10

"Iron Man 2" is a worthy successor to its predecessor.  While it can't compare to its origin story (as few superhero sequels can), it packs an awesome punch with just as much attitude and intensity as the first one.  The special effects are incredible (particularly the road race carnage and then the "briefcase" that installs itself on Tony Stark's body as the Iron man suit) and the script is fresh so that this doesn't feel like "another Iron Man movie," but the thing that resonates the most with me is the cast of awesome actors.  This isn't your cheesy superhero film from the 70's.  It is a dramatic presentation of characters who have depth and evolve from the beginning of the film through the end.  Of course Robert Downey Jr.'s arrogance is a perfect match for this character and Gwyneth Paltrow is the perfect choice for Pepper, taking responsibility and fixing all of his mistakes.  But the great thing about these two is their chemistry.  You just want them to be together so bad, even when he is a jerk.  Then when you add Don Cheadle in a supporting lead where he gets to kick some butt, and Scarlett Johansson who ALSO gets to kick some butt (in a very attractive way, if I may add), you just gain a certain energy from the intensity of their acting.  Mickey Rourke makes a very frightening villain and facilitates the government doubting Iron Man's ability to be a savior, which opens up several other plot lines that the film explores.  And finally, Sam Rockwell brings that sneaky, cowardly approach that makes you hate him, but you hate him because he acts it so well.  This story creates an interesting adventure for Iron Man, develops the characters, and addresses the issue of the palladium in Tony Stark's system, all while setting us up for "The Avengers."  The first "Iron Man" is slightly better, just because you can't beat a good origin story, but this is a solid film that can be easily understood, even if you haven't seen the original.