Almost as good as the first movie

Rating: 8/10 (5 January 2011)

There is almost always a letdown from the first successful film and its sequel. The sophomore jinx is a real problem.
This movie avoids this pitfall. The action works very well, the interplay between the actors is strong, and the movie has a great sense of humor (unlike the Spider-Man films).
Robert Downey Jr. embodies Tony Stark, he doesn't just play him. Paltrow is very good as Pepper Potts. Ditto for Cheadle as Rhodey. Mickey Rourke is okay... whenever he plays a role, he is just playing himself, though. His work in "Sin City" is the exception to this.
This movie is quintessentially what a comic book based film should be. Down to the old AC/DC track playing during the credits. If any character from Marvel ever channeled Bon Scott, it's Tony Stark.