MESSAGE IN THE MOVIES

Iron Man Rated PG-13

Directed by Jon Favreau. Starring Robert Downey Jr., Terrence Howard.

Movie Review by Rev. Bruce Batchelor Glader

Comic books on the big screen (along with old television shows made into films) are part of the summer routine, and we have films featuring The Hulk, Batman, and The Spirit coming soon. With all of the heavy-handed seriousness of some of the franchises, it’s refreshing to see that “Iron Man” is not only playful and fun, but also has something to say. We get the usual story of the superhero’s origin, but this time there’s nothing that mutates the body of millionaire weapons designer Tony Stark (Downey Jr.). What changes is his attitude about violence, when he is captured by a terrorist group that wants him to give them the new super-weapon he has just demonstrated to U.S. military. I don’t want to give any of the plot away, but I will say that Stark somehow designs a special suit that turns him into a flying, soaring, weapons-loaded Iron Man. And, this time, the formerly self-centered playboy realizes that his company is responsible for some terrible things. But it’s not too late to change. Robert Downey Jr. has always been a great actor saddled with some self-destructive habits, so he is a wonderful choice as Tony Stark. Gwyneth Paltrow is also a lot of fun as his Gal Friday Pepper Potts and their dialogue scenes are paced with the comic timing that was missing in this year’s “Leatherheads”. Director Favreau uses a lot of computer effects, but he is a big fan of old-fashioned special effects, too; the film is a visual delight, as well. Distract the kids during an early scene when Stark rolls around with a reporter and it’s pretty family-friendly for ages 8 and up. Stick through all of the credits and you’ll be rewarded with a teaser for the sequel.

Pitchfork Rating: Three halos. (A super-hero with a growing conscience; it’s a positive, and fun movie experience.)   Two pitchforks.(For abrupt, shocking acts of violence and the degradation of concentration camps; brief nudity and scenes of unmarried sexual activity.)