The Movie Did What It Set Out To

Rating: 9/10 (4 May 2013)

This review will contain very light spoilers.
In the current atmosphere of superhero movies, there are directions that have been explored and overplayed. Iron Man 2 had a shallow enemy. It had a shallow Tony Stark. In the third film of the series, the creators sought to give depth. Depth to the characters, depth to the story - and they succeeded.
Now, I will first say this: Much hate has come to this film from die-hard fans of the comics, for the film to liberties with characters (Mandarin) which many of these fans could not stand. For me, when I go into a film, I ignore any expectations. The film and the comics are very different things. The characters can be different. The question is: Did the film makers create an enemy in Mandarin that was dynamic and entertaining for the film audience. The answer? Yes.
This film does what the past two films have been unable to do for me: Leave me surprised when it came to the villain. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time - sometimes due to suspense, other times because I was laughing extremely hard.
Tony Stark has depth in this film. He has emotions. He has a supporting cast that helps redeem the character - from a buddy body-guard who comes on... hard times, to a young kid who forms an interesting side-kick'ish relationship with the title character. The film was laid our brilliantly, and every scene had a purpose.
Listen: If you want non-stop action, and want to see War Machine and Iron Man totally own people the whole movie... well, this isn't for you.
If you want to see a direct adaption of your favorite comic book, without any changes... this isn't for you.
If you want to see a movie that explores the character of Tony Stark - and through him, so many others. If you want a film that is realistic (well... enough) and has carefully adjusted its action, humor and characters... if you want a movie that can surprise you when so few superhero movies can anymore, give this movie a shot. I doubt many of you will be disappointed.