Great Job. More of the same on the way.

Rating: 9/10 (13 May 2008)

I'm not a comic book aficionado, so I judge movies like this on whether they deliver a good story. I was especially struck by the good reviews given the performances. The reviews were right on.
Even before his captivity, Tony Stark (Robert Downey, Jr.) comes across as interesting despite his gazillion bucks. He jokes and schmoozes with the troops in his convoy. He bonds with his fellow captive. So it's believable that he comes out of the experience changed.
Gwyneth Paltrow is perfect as his Girl Friday, exuding a perfect mix of loyalty, competence, bemused contempt at her boss's hedonism and sardonic humor. The red hair is a nice touch. And that name! Pepper Potts! I have to go back to Goldfinger and Pussy Galore to find a name that perfect.
There are some marvelous comic scenes as Stark tries to work the bugs out of his super-suit and trades barbs with his AI robots.
I do concur with the folks who thought a battle with a malevolent robot was a bit of an anti-climax after single handedly liberating a village. Thus the 9 instead of a 10.
Rarely have I seen a film with so many things protruding from the ending plainly labeled "attach sequel here." Stark and Potts have a thing for each other but they still hesitate. Rhodie will get a suit of his own. SHIELD will have missions for Stark. And reporter Christine Everhart (Leslie Bibb) is plainly interested in Stark. Some commentators felt Bibb was underutilized in the role. Fear not. We have not seen the last of the yummy Ms. Bibb.