Really 'Avengers .5'

Rating: 7/10 (28 August 2014)

'Iron Man 2' has a reputation for being both not as good as the original and for being bogged down by set-up for 'The Avengers'. Both of these things are certainly true, but they're ultimately not tragic flaws.
Though the villains and the stakes feel inconsequential, 'IM2' zips along at a fast clip, and fueled by great performances and a far more exciting and satisfying finale than its predecessor, it manages to entertain while also laying the foundation that the entire MCU is built upon.
Flaws and all, 'Iron Man 2' is still a worthwhile entry into the MCU, and well worth revisiting for those who may not have liked it the first time.