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Harry says there isn't a spot of rust on this IRON MAN!!!
SPOILER ALERT !!
How much awesome was tonight’s screening of IRON MAN at the Alamo Drafthouse South with Jet Pack Man? It was like freebasing pop tarts. Ridiculously Fucking Awesome Fun.
At 1:42pm – I called Tim League to ask when Jet Pack Man was going to be doing his test flight. Tim responded flatly and to the point with, “25 minutes!”
Approximately 35 seconds later Father Geek and I were peeling out of the drive-way on a frantic high speed run to see a man fly. You see… Jet Pack Man can fly for approximately just 33 seconds. That doesn’t sound long… and when you see it… it feels like a fucking blink as your mind tries to absorb it. But the idea of seeing a man fly… under the power of Hydrogen Peroxide… it was driving my every thought. Gone was the thought of Diabetes, House Construction and all my various liberal concerns… this was a flying man – using technology that James Bond used. I NEEDED TO SEE THIS!
We arrived in the parking lot at exactly 2pm. I was afraid it already happened… but lucky for me… Jet Pack Man was having problems with his Iron Man costume – and was about 20 minutes late. So I got a bit of sun. Vitamin D is your friend.
When he came out… the costume looked like the funniest FANBOY last minute stitched together costume made for a convention… Not SAN DIEGO COMIC CON… I’m talking about one of those Howard Johnson Conventions… the sort of costume that the second you see it… you begin giggling. And then when you see the drooping ass – it goes to actual laughter and head shaking.
Then… then he begins prepping the Jet Pack. Smoke begins appearing out the tubes… Then he begins strapping himself in… Suddenly… he is no longer a sad fanboy in a TAPED TOGETHER costume. No. Now he has a real functioning flight capable device. Suddenly the costume… when married to the actual Jet Pack represented… A MAN DRESSED AS IRON MAN THAT WAS ABOUT TO ACTUALLY FUCKING FLY!
Think about that. It’s ludicrous. It’s crazy. Technology that was developed for the Military in the Fifties & Sixties was today used to fly a man in custom made IRON MAN pajamas for a crowd of around 4-500. Children clutched their parents in awe… the image of a man flying as IRON MAN being burned into their minds – clouding the fragile line between reality and fantasy… I LOVE THAT!
After the awesome pre-show – came the second pre-show. The Alamo Drafthouse’s pre-show made up of classic Marvel Super Heroes IRON MAN vs. The Mandarin cartoons from the late sixties… Black Sabbath’s 70’s music video trippy as hell IRON MAN anthem… and folks – you could feel the energy in the room. Geeks buzzing with the fire to see a GREAT MARVEL FILM. The word on this film is spectacular. But when you see raves from THE NEW YORK TIMES and ROLLING STONE… can you really trust them? Sure – they know a good movie, but do they know a great IRON MAN movie?
That’s the key. In recent years we see parts of great superhero films – and then there’s about 30% or sometimes as much as 75% that isn’t quite up to snuff. But you hope there’s a learning curve. That the industry is beginning to understand comic books… but then there’s IRON MAN.
This is the very first time in film history that a Comic Book movie wasn’t made by a Hollywood Studio, but by a Comic Publisher that decided to make movies on their own properties. MARVEL COMICS made IRON MAN. Paramount has done a fantastic job selling the movie, but MARVEL COMICS developed it, paid for it and made the film.
They have made the very first 100% uncompromised perfect SUPERHERO movie.
The origin is updated, but forcefully so. It’s funny, but it never has a moment that doesn’t respect the material. It is IRON MAN.
How did this happen?
Simple – MARVEL just made the exact right decisions. They nailed the perfect director to do IRON MAN… Jon Favreau. Why was Jon perfect?
First, his sensibilities. Jon understands the chauvinistic alcoholic male & the classic PLAYBOY’s Gentleman sensibilities upon which Tony Stark belonged. We know that Tony is Howard Hughes – only way cooler. But was there any doubt that Favreau was going to make Tony Stark so money? Not for a second.
Then there’s the fact that Jon did the smartest thing imaginable. He cast a brilliantly dead on perfect actor to be TONY STARK. Robert Downey Jr has been one of film geek’s and critic’s favorite actors – but for years he’s had demons in bottles plaguing his off screen life. We all know these things – because the media world we live in shoves that crap down our throats with reckless abandon… but we also know that Robert has conquered those demons… screwed the cap back on that bottle and super-glued it shut and buried it somewhere.
And why was Downey perfect? Because since we knew that Marvel would never have the guts to have a womanizing lush as a superhero… it was ok… cuz just seeing Downey in the role – that would be the baggage that the audience would know about him. A shorthand in developing the character.
BUT WAIT A FUCKING SECOND!
Tony Stark is a womanizing Scotch swiller. He’s always got a drink in his hand, he’s a fully functional sensation junkie. Hot women, great scotch, fast cars, things that go boom better than anyone has made them go boom… and his own crash test dummy. Tony Stark is the single greatest translation from comic to screen. NOTE FUCKING PERFECT.
Not only that – he is in a Marvel Universe. SHIELD is here. Stane is here. The Mandarin is here. Pepper Potts is here, Happy Hogan is here and yes… Rhodes is here. It’s all there. All of it.
Even a fan-fucking-tastic nod to War Machine. A moment that will pop a geek’s boner even if it’s a clit.
So let’s get into it… What works?
Flatly – everything. Updating IRON MAN’s origins from Vietnam to Afghanistan… frankly it is perfect. Yinsen is wonderful. Shaun Toub just captured me. I didn’t miss the bamboo – and the 10 Rings organization was realized perfectly. The caves lent an atmosphere to the early proceedings. The creation of the Mark 1 armor and Tony’s relationship with Yensin were exquisite. As was the early flashback after Tony’s capture to set up pre-injured Stark. He wasn’t evil, he was naïve. He believed his own press. He believed he was providing weapons to make a safer America – not realizing that those weapons were being used around the world… and that his name… his father’s name… was being used to deliver death and maiming to the very men he thought he was innovating to protect. The realization changes the man completely. The torture, the near-death experience and his friend, Yensin – set him on a journey to be more than a playboy, more than a Merchant of Death. He seeks to be a hero – and who is he saving? His own soul. It’s classic stuff.
The film is tonally very much classic Iron Man. That sense of suave, the humor and the action… peppered with a romantic pinch that never gets in the way. Ms Paltrow is great as Pepper. She’s in on all of Tony’s secrets, she has intense feelings for Tony – but she also knows who he is. She’s let out the one night stands – and seen them off – all while he plays with his “toys” – he’s a big irresponsible boy – and in a way – she’s mother – all the while hoping that Tony grows up, but doesn’t want him hurt along the way.
Jeff Bridges is fantastic as Obadiah Stane. Just a great two faced sonuvabitch. Charming and a snake. He’s the reason that Tony has had the luxury to be the spoiled shit that he is. While Tony’s genius fuels all of Stark Industries, Stane is the Cardinal Richelieu behind it all. He’s the man pulling the strings. The man perverting the genius and exploiting it create an unstoppable cycle of worldwide violence that funds this empire.
Now – the key thing for an Iron Man movie… the number one question to be answered. How cool is the tech in the film?
It is all a joy. Even Paul Bettany’s voice of Jarvis works.
In the acting realm – there’s only one slight problem that I have. And I totally get why it is the way it is. It involves the character of Happy Hogan as played by Jon himself. I loved Hogan’s character in the old silver age books. I loved how he and Pepper flirted… and how Pepper only had eyes for Tony. I miss Hogan being Tony’s best friend – and yeah – I know that role is being filled by Terrence Howard’s Jim Rhodes… and sure that’s what modern IRON MAN fans want to see… but I just wanted more to that character. Who knows – that might have been the case – and as director – Jon cut his own character first, rather than lose scenes from others. Whatever the case… I wish that character was fleshed out.
The only other gripe I have is this… I wish the score had been epic. Instead it came off as Zimmer derivative action score stuff – Of course… IRON MAN is only IRON MAN at the end of the film – and when that name sticks – the second it is the accepted moniker – we hear the true theme – the theme we want – and the theme you want expanded in the next film – and yes… you’ll want the next film. You’ll want it immediately.
This film is hugely satisfying. Geeks hung around the front of the theater beaming about the movie non-stop. A large group of us hit a bar afterwards for booze like our hero had. We watched the Laker game and the IRON MAN spots – and relished our memories of this immensely entertaining film.
Marvel has just announced itself with this film. However, they have to be careful. To create their brand – and not squander it, they have to keep being smart with their writers, directors and properties. THOR is a homerun, if they can find a THOR. The script is the best hero comic script to date. I think some of us are really rooting for THE INCREDIBLE HULK later this summer. But one thing is for sure…
It’s official, Summer 2008 is here – and it is here to kick our ass with a beautiful iron boot.
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No shit.
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We all want THE INCREDIBLE HULK to be good, and IRON MAN will be great. But you saw THE DARK KNIGHT trailer, that baby is going to own.
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Apr 29, 2008 3:28:31 AM CDT
"A moment that will pop a geek’s boner even if it’s a clit."
by jabbayoda
So you're saying I shouldn't stick my face between my girlfriend's legs during this scene, unless I want to risk becoming a gay?
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...to see how they handle the Mandarin in the upcoming films. Cuz let's face it...that's a pretty ridiculous character. Magic rings my ass.
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Cause I actually bothered to read the article
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And it was fantastic! I can't wait to see Iron Man again.
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sounds good
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Naw, I'm just fuckin' with ya Big Red. This flick is getting positive reviews across the board. Can't wait to see it Friday morning since the fat cunt at CinemaSouth changed the midnight show on Thursday to 11pm and I'll be stuck at work. Fuck it dude, let's go bowling...
Any-the-who, when can we see some video of Rocket Jetpack Boy, or whatever hell his name is? -
The movie should be really great...I'd like for this and the Hulk movie to set up for a realistic take on the Avengers (and the Captain America story could be a part of that movie)
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Starts with Iron Man no less, moves on to Indy, The Dark Knight, and a new Shlamalamadingdong movie. Also if I'm not mistaken, no movie by Ratner, Bay or Sommers. WTF !!!!!!!
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Apr 29, 2008 3:47:16 AM CDT
By the way i know not many of you like the Schlamma
by nomoredirtyjokespleaseweareyanks
but for those of us who do it rates highly on the geek-meter.
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Harry just confided in me that he was only rushing because he thought it was going to be a screening of TDK. Sorry, Harry. I had to tell the children.
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I've heard some complaints, whats your take on it big man ??
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Apr 29, 2008 3:58:23 AM CDT
You've mention the THOR script a couple times already
by blindambition238
Do you think we might get a review at some point similar to the X-3 one (but not depressing)?
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when harry drooling all over the place..okay the movie was great but be a fucking man not a gay!
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Finding the right Thor - 'Sawyer' from LOST would be pretty much perfect. As for IRON MAN...glad to hear Harry loved it (although Harry did write a similarly favourable review for SUPERMAN RETURNS, so perhaps his superhero fanboyness biases his opinion). We shall soon see.
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apart from the fact that Matthew Vaugh is directing.
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and I know enough now not to trust a Harry review for a second.
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Apr 29, 2008 4:28:56 AM CDT
Cmoooooonnnnn....someone bite my big juicy
by nomoredirtyjokespleaseweareyanks
Schlamma hook.mmmmmmm tasty.
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Fury should be reserved for Clint Eastwood or Mel Gibson. Bar none!!!!
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Glad you liked it, Harry! I'm dying to see this.
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Can someone please confirm this.
He wasn't in preview screenings. -
My suggestion is... do not leave the theater til the lights come up and everything is off the screen. I don't know why - but Friday - I have a sneaking suspicion that you should stay til the very end of the print.
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The UK papers last week/weekend gave it a resounding "meh"> Even Empire only gave it 3 out of 5. Maybe it is because Iron Man is such a geek/ American property that the mainstream just isn't excited about it. Really, all the predictions people are making about it making $250m+ still seem to me to be wildly optimistic for a comic-book property that hasn't penetrated that far. Good or not. BUt what the fuck do I know about this anyway.
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But i´ll give a chance to this movie.
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all I'm saying is that the UK reviews I've seen have been severely meh- in which case it probably is great if you have some interest in Iron Man and probably eminently missable if you don't (which I will bet is the majority). But, what the fuck do I know.
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Of course it's going to have its flaws. In time, the same "film critics" on this site that are praising it as a near-perfect film and the culmination of the world's geek dreams will come back around and pick at those flaws like they saw them since day one.
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I stayed until after the credits. I don't know why my print was lopped, but I'm mildly upset about it. An excuse to see it again, at any rate.
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Busted Tee girl saves the day!
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So this is looking to be the replacement for Spider-Man in terms of popularity, eh? Yay! I always dug Iron Man.
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MONKEYS AND RACE CARS AND CHRISTINA RICCI IN THE ROLE SHE WAS BORN TO PLAY!
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Skin cancer and sunburn aren't. Fuck the sun.
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Well, for some of us, obviously.
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You great redheaded twit (Robert Downey Jr. is shaking his head right now).
You do know they say alcohol (in general) is like drinking sugar don't you? Ya Diabetes-ridden goon. You'll fall off the twig pretty soon at this rate.
Entertaining story though dude. -
"blah, blah, blah...boners and clits..." Harry Knowles - Ain't It Cool News
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The whole movie is off the mark when it comes to the tone. And last time I checked the tone of a movie was the most important aspect, for a comicbook movie doubly so. The whole movie reeks of cheesiness, masquerading for faithfulness.
Except for the hammy (but cool) performance by Downey the movie is totally dull. The script is inept and gives no real justification for Stark to go back to the Middle East. His "change of heart" is so hamfisted it plagues all the remaining "emotional" moments - Gwyneth Paltrow doing the rest.
Since there's no justification for the few action scenes (except the first one in the desert) - and hence no satisfying build-up - how can there be payoff? How can they expect us to take the movie seriously, if they don't take things seriously themselves? The "classic hero stuff" Harry's talking about is just BS.
I find it funny how Harry can totally forget to apply to this movie the reviewing pattern he applies to most of the flicks he talks about. Blind fanboyism? This ain't epic, this ain't relevant, and above all this is a neutered version of the character, and even RDJ can't totally save it from being a lame kiddy flick.
Now, this is a matter of opinion. Some people will probably genuinely love the movie, and more power to them. But where you're truly losing all your remaining cred Harry is where you're talking about Marvel as making an "uncompromised" movie. That's so much boldface lying it hurts. You DO know it's untrue, you DO know that the artistic decisions were as compromised as any other Fox or Sony-released Marvel property and that Marvel created their studio ONLY for the bottom line. Who do you think you (and they) are fooling? In Hollywood, distributors have the biggest dick when it comes to decision-making and Marvel Studios must deliver a product in line with the contract they signed with Paramount, and countless foreign companies: the rating, the running time, the cast... ALL these decisions are taken by committees. Using the Marvel gospel to spread their BS about their "independance" is just unprofessional and this whole review smells like the Godzilla review ten years ago. Shame. -
hasn't been casted as Thor yet because???????
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ITS NOT A TRUE SUPERHERO MOVIE UNLESS HE FLIPS/PICKS UP/THROWS/EATS SOME SORT OF MOTOR VEHICLE!
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Marvel seems to hit this out of te park- however early indications are they dropped the ball on the Hulk- So maybe this is more of a Favreau thing than a Marvel thing...Just maybe
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Would you say Iron Man is more geek then say Transformers?
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get some help.
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Apr 29, 2008 8:32:39 AM CDT
Zimmer's dialing it in these days, Goldsmith would have owned th
by killakane
The whole de-rigeur Media Ventures *sound* is getting tired, it's slick granted, but for the most part there's a paucity of good orchestration and compositional depth, at worst it's just lazy, cookie cutter, formulaic scoring. John Powell is one of a few MV alumni composer's who's really established himself as a major talent, I wish he had landed the Iron Man gig.
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people poo poo-ing it need to lighten up. The one thing the film is not is dull. I can't believe that word is being used at all when talking about this film. If you want to have a good time with a big loud comic film then this is it. Downey makes the film though., of that there is no doubt but I loved the shit out of it and hope a sequel is greenlit immediately. It will be a real travesty if this thing fails to make tons of cash when something as empty and lame like transformers can make so much and rush hour is a franchise that has a film with the number 3 in its title.
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Awful, awful review.
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had a lot of musical experience previous MV. He didn't start there, like these puppets nowdays (Jablonsky, Zanelli, Djawadi etc.). Maybe he started his career there, then moved away quickly.
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There is something after the end credits? Really, man that is annoying. Plus I always forget about it. And the times I think there is going to be something, or I see other people waiting around I always end up wrong.
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Jim Broadbent would have been a great Edwin Jarvis, but maybe Jarvis 2.0 can win me over.
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The reason why the ball has been dropped by Hulk (supposedly) and the earlier film was also a bit of a mixed bag, is because he's a fucking shit superhero !
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Lying In The Gutters has the scoop about what happened - http://www.comicbookresources.com/?page=article&id=16195
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The geeks behind me who were talking way too loud after the movie noticed that the theme from the animated series was listed in the credits. They figured it was the ring tone on Rhodey's phone when Tony calls him from the suit. I'm not familiar with the animated theme so I can't confirm.
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got to meet Harry and jet pack man. It was pretty freaking cool!I've got pictures up on my myspace and I think I'll put the video of him flying up later. Its pretty cool.
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This "review" reads like ad copy from the press release. Summer 2008 is here... Harry, if you stopped selling Hollywood crap for them, they might actually listen to you and make some decent movies for a change.
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It was pretty freakin' awesome (thanks Capone!). I'd even argue it's the best Marvel superhero film yet. I don't get the love for Spiderman2 unless you're an emo teenager. All that cheesy high drama and overwrought dialogue, without much point. The first 2 X-Men had some fantastic moments, but had their flaws as well (I'm looking at you, Halle).
But this is just fantastic from beginning to end. I did NOT see anything after the credits, but that doesn't mean Fury won't be there for the gen.pub. showing. I'll wait for DVD. But they do work in SHIELD in a pretty cool way. RDjr rocks, and I liked how certain scenes seemed (and probably were) improvised, which immediately moves the film away from cheesy dialogue love scenes. The politics were interesting without being overbearing. It was amazingly funny. But also serious when it needed to be. The fact that the comedy and drama turned on a dime speaks to the tightness of the script (you've already seen one example in the trailer - where RDjr is joking with the troops right before they get attacked in a pretty harrowing scene straight out of the current wars). The tech is freakin' amazing - I especially liked the in-suit view, very much like the comics. All the actors were great and there was some excellent chemistry between Paltrow and RDjr. She makes a fine Pepper Potts.
As far as origin stories, I also do not get why people find these annoying. The whole point of being a superhero is NOT just to do cool stuff, but rather to show what choices a human being makes with power, and how they transform their lives. Of course, here it's not a cheesy great power=great responsibility speech, but rather an actual decision to change one's life and one's direction. The origin is not a tacked on thing in Iron Man, but is integral to the story and the direction of the plot. What's interesting is that this isn't a geeky teenager who suddenly gets superpowers. This is someone who ALREADY has a lot of power, but is forced to question what he has been doing with it, and the fact that his decisions (and ignorance about others' decisions) have a global impact.
This thing has legs. I also feel it's the most mature of the Marvel superhero films, the most adult. Still, I predict big box office and the makings of a trilogy. Can War Machine and Demon in a Bottle be far behind?
One last thing. Best. Stan. Lee. Cameo. Ever. -
I just tried freebasing parp tarts! Now i got a bad headache and the house is a mess!
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I don't get Spencer Trilby's comments about tone. I think the tone for this film is pitch perfect. I don't find this cheesy for one second. The Spiderman films were cheesy. They're kinda supposed to be. But this was anything but.
"no real justification for Stark to go back to the Middle East" Really? How about learning that the people who tortured him and killed American soldiers and the guy who saved his life now have his weapons and are terrorizing villages? How about realizing he can undo some of the damage his company has done? How about revenge? How about using his inventions to save lives? What movie did you see? -
He initially established himself writing commercial music and working with Harry and Rupert Gregson Williams at 'Shake-up' prior to his internship at MV. I think during his association with MV he was helping out on the 'farm' so to speak, ghosting on quite a few scores before he broke out with Face Off and Chicken Run (which was part of a long running collaboration with his mate Harry Gregson Williams). For me he's one one of the few of the 'new breed' of composers, who really has compositional talent and versatility. He's got an innate ability to spot a scene, plus IMHO his programming/production skills are awesome.
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That's a good review, Harry. Says enough without giving much up and spoiling it. I got tix for the first "normal dude" showing in Cleveland, Thursday at 8pm. I'm going to pop an IRON BONER
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Iron Man picks up a car. It's in the trailer. I doubt he throws it, cuz there's a family inside. I think he was protectin' them from Monger.
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Apr 29, 2008 10:41:05 AM CDT
"A moment that will pop a geek’s boner even if it’s a clit."
by bobman46
Jesus Harry.
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My new favorite line to ever come from this site. I assume we'll be seeing this one in various threads for a while.
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It's a comic, a series, a characther, not a box of detergent. Stop buying into the awful marketing speak that reduces everything to a "brand."
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Remember that THUMPING in those DARK KNIGHT trailers? And doesn't it give your bloodstream a bit more of a push? Music does so much to enhance the impact, no matter what the genre. And music can even enhance a scene when there is suddenly none. It's all part of the recipe, folks. And just maybe, if we're vocal enough, they might give us an extra bonus in a "Special Edition" dvd release...by giving us an option to watch "IRON MAN" with a score that is more worthy of the film. (Does it help if I say, "Please?")
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Harry your review just transformed me from half-awake, half-hung-over zombie to full-on energized, excited and supercharged fanboy maniac geek begging for Friday.
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After one of their group pulls a gun on somebody outside a club Favreau yells at him: "Didn't you see BOYZ N THE HOOD?! Now one of US is going to get shot!"
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I watched that the other night. I'd forgotten how good it is. Anyhoo- yes I absolutely would say that Iron Man is more geeky than Transformers- one one side you have a minor character from a geeky pastime (and before you all wail and gnash your teeth you know this to be true), and on the other you have fondly remembered and much loved toys from the 80's. Even been generous I'd say Iron Man is a very, very B list comic character.
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It was 'meh', not bad or anything but nothing stuck out. Here's to Dark Knight!
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Agreed, it could've been the cheesy music that did this one in for me. It seemed to say "Hey, look how cool this is!"
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Harrys geek juices always drown the rational and critical side of his nature. Still like racing his reviews but I always take them with a pinch of salt. Still, hugely looking forward to Friday.
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still not as good at speed typing on the iPhone as I'd like!!
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So I guess the whole diet thing isn't going so well? Nah, I kid. I'm dieting pretty hardcore, too. I can't wait to see the movie on Friday.
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I'm so looking forward to this and this summer in general! Good stuff.
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We all know it.
When Ed Norton starts saying that you can't release this shit because it's HIS reputation that will suffer.... it don't look good. -
Yeah I agree with you on Iron Man being a B-lister, I'd say on par with Dare Devil. But Iron Man has been around and is still around. Transformers was on for 3 years in the 80's. I mean all the 10-17 year olds that saw it weren't around for it and would've only gotten into it for geekdom reasons. I mean no one really gave a shit about Beast Wars. Big loud movies make money. Especially when there is a vehicle being flipped. I mean Transformers was just one vehicle being fliped after another. And as long as Tony flips some vehicles, it'll make money, even if its only 'meh' in the eyes of a critic. I don't think it'll be as big as Bayformers, but it should easily beat out X-3 and Superpooper. I bet it does better the the Hulk as well, maybe. I mean look at Pirates, it was loud and dumb and only geeks are REALLY into pirates, and you can't saw everyone's sat there ass in the ride. We'll have to see. I mean I do get what you mean, because I wouldn't be that surprised if it doesn't break the bank. But there wasn't a single good wide release film since Jan (unless you want to count Who) and I think people are wanting to see a big movie.
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Yeah Edward Norton should've known that there was going to be trouble if the NEW and IMPROVED bad guy was going to be played by Tim Roth. His first reaction should have been, I am not doing a DTV movie. Seriously, Roth did two movies with QT and Rob Roy and thats it. That was over 10 years ago. Oh and the Burton Monkey film. Was that the best choice of actors they could get?
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I hated Swingers, but, truly Tony Stark is money.
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Awesome..I totally agree with harry about marvel not squandering their successes.It seems for every good marvel film or films there has to be some bad ones..they had a string of really good ones blade,xmen,blade2,spiderman,x2, but then come daredevil,hulk,thepunisher..then spiderman 2 comes out, kicks major ass..and here comes the wave ranging from mega-crappy to semi-crappy and back to utter shit films like blade trinity,man-thing(kind of to be expected it was a direct to scifi channel movie), elektra,fantastic four,xmen3,ghost rider,sp3,fant.four2 was semi crappy i guess, but give us at least 2 good ones to break the shitstreak!! Glad to hear iron man may clear the stench up a lil..
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YOU KNOW THIS TO BE TRUE
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wow this review is a real fucking shocker ...
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I beg to differ. Roth is an excellent actor. See his team up with Lt. Gordon (Gary Oldman) in Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead and tell me differently. I also remember an excellent performance in Bodies, Rest and Motion. Roth has done mostly indie films. It's his big budget stuff that sucks. So if Incredible Hulk bombs, it's not because of casting.
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and it was AWESOME!!!1!!1
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I want more Iron Man. Yep, I already decided this before seeing it. I will be watching it no less than 5 times in the theater. Yeah, I know that is not much in the broader scheme of things, but I want to do my part. I want sequels with Fav, Downey and the gang. I want Iron Man to be a confidence boost to Marvel and a wake-up call to the typical Hollywood studios as they see a fully-financed comic movie kick all ass... without their cuts, advice, and "recommendations".
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Sorry Harry, I'm not the usual hater of yours, but I've seen enough of your reviews to not take a COMIC BOOK movie review of yours seriously because you seem to pop a huge boner 90% of the time when a comic character shows up on the big screen.
Although, I'm sure this one will be good, but Tony Stark being the best translation from comic to screen ever? Nah. I don't buy it for a second. I love Downey, but it's that stuff you spew that makes me doubt your whole review. I'd get giddy with excitement and proclaim every hyped up movie to be the best movie ever of whatever category when I was 13. Since then, I've learned to be more constructive and aware, for better or for worse, if that means im more of a cynical asshole who cant enjoy things then so be it. But as a critic on a popular site, you really gotta stop screaming this and that are the BEST ever. It diminishes credibility. -
C'mon---what MORE do you want from a Summer Movie??
The positive reviews are just icing on the cake... and might just get the non-Comics, non-superhero, non-sfx crowd into the theaters with the expected MARVEL zombies drooling at the sight of Tony Stark/IM brought to life... Can't wait till Friday!
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I'm telling you, the music is a solid 40% of why Superman was so perfect and why people forgave the '89 Batman movie as much as they did. Why are they not tackling this?! Star Wars and Indiana Jones are great, but I'm telling you the music is a HUGE part of that. Someone needs to drop kick the shit out of Hollywood's music men (or the producers and directors who have warped them into the makers of white noise that they have become).
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Saw it in Raleigh and you better believe the hype, people. 8.5/10. It's fucking fantastic. Paltrow is weak in parts, Howard is vastly underused, and The Dude is your standard baddie, but fuck did Downey own in this movie. The suit looks great, the action sequences are well-done, although the last fight does some quick-edits at times that made it hard to see what was going on. I really enjoyed it. The last line of this movie will have big implications for the sequel, and I for one cannot wait. No Nick Fury, not even after the credits. I stayed with my friends, and there is no extra scene there.
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and you'll see the Jokerized sabotaged version of the TDK trailer. the wont those WB insider's posing as fans won.... That it all.
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and you'll see the Jokerized sabotaged version of the TDK trailer. The one, those WB Insider's posing as fans won. The on with the images posted in the blog.... That is all.
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starts talking about TDK being awesome is an ass whoring fuck twit. After BB I'm not paying to see anymore lisping spitting Christian Bale try to talk tough in a Halloween outfit.
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Grab their cocks. Here's the deal you have this site called ain't it cool.
They review films, and leak info about films, but they also want to make movies.
They are using this place and the power it gives them as a springboard too increase they're grip on this biz's subculture, it's collection of creatives, and the powers that run it.
When they personally know and get befriended by a big name in the biz, or the person is in the circle of these friends. They support them and they push their stuff with less than credible reviews. They defend these actions by saying they don't tend to reverse they're judgements on the film after time has passed. The running gag, is to be warm and receptive to aicn staff and make them like you cause they will help too push your stuff, cause they are total star fuckers.
None of these HW people would have shit too do with these mid too late 30something's if not for this websites followers.
Sure the staff here may say something bad about the movie of a friend, but they do it very Sly Cooper'ish, so it isn't the reviews highlight or focal point or even it's headline.
God help anyone they don't like. They will spare no mercy and in some cases predicate a bad review before the film is even in production.
Harry still isn't in. Mori on the other hand got his. A little late in blooming, but at least this worked out well for one of them. All critics secretly envy the roles they critique.
What they are doing is working... Harry still isn't in. Mori on the other hand got his. A little late in blooming, but at least this worked out well for one of them. All critics secretly envy the roles they critic some are sly enough to use it to get a foot in the door. -
I stayed till they closed the screen. There was no Nick Fury, how did this rumor gain so much momentum?
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Harry and Mori you take these awesome, amazing, privileges you have for granted. I wasn't always so unkind too you guys. You picked on me first a long time ago, revelling in it. I could feel your twsited sneers, so many miles away from me. Before this I never made any personal attacks against anyone here. I looked up to you two. You treat people like shit. You don't even think about it. When you do it, you don't think it has any effect on who you do it too... There so much bad you deserve, but I wish you both the best of luck and a lifetime of happiness. I just wish you didn't do what you did too me! I didn't deserve it, you fucking insensitive jerks! One day your going to push someone who pushes back.
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... absolutely no preview screenings of the film have the Fury scene at the end. They are holding it for general release. Period. It's not a rumor.
And, gee... let's look at ThePilgrim's talkback output. Oh, look, tons of baseless accusation and name-calling!
Yeah, I'm heartbroken over your mistreatment by big bad Harry and Mori. Cry me a river, dude, but if you're really going, go. Don't pull the sob story and then hang around to cry some more. If you mean it, go, and if not, then just get back to your regular schedule of making up wretched shit to say about us. -
so basically, sometime previously (probably under a different name), you did something, and some people on the AICN staff did something to you that made you upset about something.I think you have a libel suit there, kiddo.
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surely not. Doesn't he know this is Talkback, a place for sensible adults to share informed criticism in a civil and polite manner?
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Jealous much? Go smoke a turd ya whiny little fuck. Jesus man, it's a free site. If you don't like it, go read something else. But don't get your panties in such a bunch.
No one's opinion on here is the gospel. (well, USS Cygnus thinks his is) You have a mind of your own (allegedly) so feel free to think for yourself for a change. It's OK to disagree. Half the fun of AICN is wading into the talkbacks and wading through all the filth, drivel, and vitriol. So either grow a spine or please fuck off permanently. I heartily suggest the latter. -
Damn You Michael Bay
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Some guy I know says he doesn't think Robert Downey Jr. will make a good Tony Stark. And that's ALL people have been talking about. it's the part about this movie I am so excited about. I can't wait 'til this movie proves him SO fucking wrong. Pilgrim should leave. Go outside. get some sunshine, meet some people. Shut up.
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just a clit?
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that was obviously sarcasm you complete shitbag
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I live in Phoenix, AZ, and I saw the movie Tuesday night. It was a special sneak-preview at the Harkins Theater in Fashion Square Mall. The movie started at 7pm...
I enjoyed the movie. It beat my expectations, although I purposely tried to keep my expectations low. On a scale of 1 to 100, I would give the movie an 82. I put the movie into the upper echelon of comic-book movies, but that isnt exactly saying too much. Most comic-book movies disappoint me.
Downey Jr was wonderful! He poured his heart and soul into his performance. If you have no expectations of who or what Tony Stark is about, then you will walk away thinking Downey Jr makes an amazing Tony Stark. Downey definitely sold me on the techno-babble, and he made Stark into a witty, caring character. Unfortunately, I was still disappointed in his portrayal of Tony Stark, when compared to the comic-book version. The comic-book verison of Tony Stark is someone who is sophisticated, suave, worldly, devastatingly handsome, and completely sure of himself at all times. Downey often came across as smarmy and irreverent, two qualities you would never find in the comic-book Tony Stark.
The script was overall satisfactory. The plot seemed to get sillier and sillier as the movie moved along, but that's typical in comic-book movies. Big plot holes towards the end (I have trouble with the justification of the F-22s chasing Iron Man, and how did Stane become so proficient with the Iron Monger so quickly?)
The scenes where Stark designs, builds and tests the Mark 2 and Mark 3 armors are fantastic! It's like they stripped those scenes straight from the comic-books (and I should know. I have been collecting Iron Man non-stop for 25 years.) I was as giddy as a school-girl watching those scenes. I think I embarrassed my friend sitting next to me. I dont care though. I had fun watching those scenes.
Gwenyth Paltrow was darn good in this movie. It's so easy to empathize with her. She has always impressed me. Good actors can take mediocre dialog and make it their own. She proves this several times in the film.
I am not sure why Terrance Howard was in this film. Perhaps to set him up as war machine in the next film? His part was unnecessary.
Jeff Bridges was good, but they hamstringed his scenes. In the comic-books, Obadiah is a business genius and a master manipulator. I didnt get that feeling from him in the movie, although it was nice to see a chess-board in Obadiah's living room.
There are at least a dozen little easter-eggs to watch for in the movie. I wont point them all out here, because I dont want to spoil them, and besides, anyone reading this review will be able to spot them on their own anyhow. However, here are two I hope you dont miss..
1. Listen to the music played in the casino when Stark is gambling. If you have ever watched the old Iron Man cartoon from the late 60s, you will recognize the music.
2. Look for a nod to Howard Hughes in Tony's office, later in the film.
This movie is good enough to guarantee sequels. You know War Machine will show up. Considering the amount of drinking Stark does in this movie, and the number of references to alcohol in the film, Stark's alcoholism will also show up in a sequel. Who will be the villain in the next film? No idea. The reference to the Mandarin was so darn thin in this film (at one point the lead terrorist, who wears a very big ruby-ring, refers to his cell as "The Ten Rings." Its the only Mandarin reference in the whole film) that I think it still doesnt set-up the Mandarin to be used in the next film.
Overall, a fun ride, and worthy of your ten bucks. Its a darn good comic-book movie. I pay close attention to box-office numbers, and after seeing this movie, I am sure Iron Man will make 200+ million this summer. Will it break 300 mil? I doubt it, but you never know. -
I was waiting for this- you drivelling little marketing whore. I've just googled you and checked your record and amazingly you only have 1 posting ever at AICN and it was on Iron Man. You have, however, also posted the same inane dreck on a few other sites. Fucking foilage.
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I didn't say Roth was a crappy actor, I just said that he's fallen off the map as of recent. I personally like his stuff. But he was getting huge in the early 90's then he didn't make anything worth while in a long time.
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John Debney gave Favreau's Zathura some huge orchestral bang - why the hell did he not get the Iron Man gig? He could have done an excellent job, like his Cutthroat Island masterwork ( yeah the movie sucks but the score is brillaint).
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What a pathetic fucking post.Now all you have left to ponder is what new talkback handle you'll come back as...Greymarch, try again.
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I am MUCH more curious about the Ed Norton interpretation, not some cRAnKed-HULK b.s. The effects are worthless if there's not much of a story.
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Hi, just saw the movie in Shanghai, China. Loved it. Best comic book movie to be made since Spider Man 2. And yes, Sam Jackson is there as Nick Fury! He appears after the credits, so stick around. And he mentions two awesome words to Stark "Project Avenger". I dare anybody to call Bullshit on me for this! I also love how they sneaked in the classic Iron Man cartoon theme from the 60's in a couple of scenes. Big Band Vegas version and Cell phone version.
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Apr 30, 2008 9:46:40 AM CDT
fuck zimmer derivative, the score should have been done by Ghost
by mthrndr
killah. He's been Ironman to me for the last 10 years.
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killah. got cut off.
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Apr 30, 2008 10:35:05 AM CDT
Ghostface performed at my school this past weekend.
by dreadlock holmes
Wu-Tang Clan and Tony Stark numba one!
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Really enjoyed it. Not the deepest movie ever but great turns by everyone involved. Clever script, likable characters, great effects. Just a great time. Also, stayed through the credits and in our screening there was NO Nick Fury cameo. But alot of people waited and they were all looking for it, too. You could hear someone yell "Nick Fury!!" when the credits ending and nothing came up. Maybe it'll only be in the print that's in theaters this weekend?
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...We must have video!
You paint a picture and then deny us a viewing?
You ARE the evil.
MT -
http://www.im db.com/name/nm0641380/
harry, you know it to be true. -
Good to hear. I'm looking forward to this...
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Just FUCKING STAY AFTER THE CREDITS, I saw it in Tijuana (Mexico), were it opened today and if you can go you bastards! it's really good!
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period. perfect. I SAID PERFECT!!!!
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at least, not at the screening i saw tonight in toronto...we were told to wait through the credits and when there was nothing, the whole theatre BOOO'ed for the guy who told us to stay
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OK, I just got home from watching it on general release (Brisbane Australia, it opens in this country today). I can confirm that there SPOILER is indeed a cameo after the (so, so long...) credits. Since people won't believe just a simple declaration, here's the text of what happens. DO NOT LEAVE DURING THE CREDITS! Stark comes home. The lights are off. A familiar voice booms from the lounge, asking him if he thinks he's the only person to be 'special'. He asks Stark if he's ready to take a step into "a bigger universe". He steps into the light. It's Samuel L Jackson, with eyepatch. "I'm Sgt Nick Fury from SHIELD. I want to talk to you about the Avengers Initiative."I leapt from my seat, punched the air and yelled "FUCK YEAH!" to my now empty cinema. THE CAMEO IS THERE for the general release. Further, the last ten seconds before the credits (MASSIVE spoiler ahead here!) make the film fit into the whole 'the world knows...' continuity. He's been given a cover story ("Are people really gonna believe it's my bodyguard in a suit??") and when in front of the media, decides 'fuck it' and declares, "The truth is - I AM Iron Man." BOOM.
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You miss that the after-credits thing actually doesn't work very well in that it dilutes the BOOM! ending. After we go to Sabbath we should have to wait two more years to see the fallout SPOILER - I think he knows they WON'T believe him after he says that because of everything that has come before. Then to water it down with the lame "for the fans" shoehorned-in bit. I'm surprised he didn't hand Stark a fucking business card!
Too bad there wasn't another fat kid to chest-bump.;) -
Mmm, thought about it, disagree. That is, I don't think they won't believe him, so no lag time needed. And if there had been another human being in the cinema I wouldn't have been so demonstrative - it was the ridiculousness (given nobody else was there) of the action that was appealing to me.By the way, I'm fat but I'm 37 and not a retarded fratboy, so no chest-bumping for me. Even high fiving seems embarassing, unless it's in an ironic way.And a business card would have been fun too.
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So Air-punching is the old man's chest-bump eh? Good to know.
And I'm glad you enjoyed it (and took the mocking appropriately). -
I stayed there with my friend...(i want to use flabbergasted but cant quite remember if what i think it means is right) anyways we were there flabbergasted and just loving what we'd just seen..and I tell her oh there was this scene filmed with Sam Jackson...Nick Fury...(she is sort of new to comics)...too bad it wasn't in the movie. I remember how SO many said it wasn't in the movie and might be in the theatrical...but as fucking retarded as i am thought it would be IN the movie...not at the very end. Ah well. Guess I'll just have to see it when it gets posted on youtube by some pirates (as i did with Xmen Last Stand)
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http://youtube.com/watch?v=rqaQgLc0vKE
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I salute you sir...it sucks when marketing saps infiltrate our little talkbacks....call that shit like it is! fight on, brother!
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Why thank you sir...haha knew it would show up...but not This quickly!!
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I'm not really a UK person (grew up in Sweden) but im in london studying presently and watched it with a very small audience cause it was a matinee show on a thursday. People seemed to eat it up tho...and I loved it myself...If theres anything there...(altho i dont really look too much into IGN reviews apart from just for fun to see what they think) the UK one gave it a 3/5 while both AU and US reviews were 4/5. Mind you the 3/5 one wasnt a negative nor a 'meh' review but rather saying it had a good setup and Favreau will probably master it in the sequel.
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arguably one of the best superhero movies to date!! great movie! loved it. can't wait to see it again!!
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THERE IS NOTHING LIKE IT .....
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Rick Astley.
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Saw it tonight. A friend of mine had been complaining for the last three or for years that Marvel (or DC) are not mentioned in each other's films. Well, there is the occasional nod, but after tonight, after Iron man, I asked him if he was happy. He was happy.
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Iron Man was always my favorite Marvel character since I was a kid, and I'll admit, I was scared with this movie. I thought the trailers looked like shit. Just saw it earlier tonight, and man. DUDE, this movie is awesome. and YES, stay after teh credits. CANT WAIT FOR DR. JONES NOW!
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With the constant Iron Man ejaculations on this site over the past few weeks, it's not a shock to learn that the writers here are all gushing over it. Hell, I even considered suggesting to Harry that he change the web address of this place to ironmanmovie.com/aintitcool. I look forward to seeing it.
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I was thinking specifically of the review in the papers last sunday- If they have been better since I stand corrected.
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please Harry stop supporting this project!!!
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I agree with this part: "they have made the very first 100% uncompromised perfect SUPERHERO movie." I mean, how cool is that?! I hope it starts a long healthy trend of uncompromised perfect superheroe movies.. let's hope for that
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"The only other gripe I have is this… I wish the score had been epic. Instead it came off as Zimmer derivative action score stuff"--kinda boring, you never know what kind of a score it is--but, what you gonna do.. who made the score anyway? Gotta check the list
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There's an 8-minute Preview at YourGeekNews.com that has some interviews with Favreau, Howard and RObert Downey Jr., plus some REALLY sweet scenes from the movie here:
[url]http://www.yourgeeknews.com/[/url] -
http://tinyurl.com/4ppxxq
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in any case. Iron Man Sounds awesome can't wait to see it.
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File this under "Most Welcome News". Thrilled to hear it. I can't wait. I'll skip all the obvious ruminations on how did this adaptation become succesful, and just say it gives you hope for the future. With the right combination of talent, every once in a while, they get it right.
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what an ace film. didn't stay the full credits, sadly, looks like we missed something quite class. oh well, there's always the DVD in a few months.
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I have my ticket for tonight and I'm stoked, but not wanting to get too sucked into the "BEST SUPERHERO MOVIE EVER" hype. Here's my question: In your opinion is it below, on-par or better than X2?
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it's fairly close though
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.. I think this may well be the best comic book movie I've ever seen. It definately raises the bar for every one that follows.
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May 02, 2008 3:16:40 PM CDT
"A moment that will pop a geek’s boner even if it’s a clit."
by zacdilone
Which does Harry get off more on, writing that shit or the buzz it creates in talkback? I'm embarrassed for him.
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but I thought the movie was definitely one of the best superhero movies ever, up there with Superman II and X2. It maybe be the best one. I'll have to let it sit for a while. But if there was a flaw, I couldn't find it.
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Wow, not an easy list to create when you get down to it. In researching all the comic book movies that have ever been released, I found far more than I realized. RottenTomatoes has a top 100 list! Wikipedia also has a very comprehensive list. Please note that this particular top 10 list focuses specifically on superhero movies. Graphic novel adaptations are not included, nor are comic strip characters, or animated features. We're talking only about superheroes on film here. The two main criteria I based my ratings upon were spectacle and character. Here it is:1) Batman Returns2) Superman3) Batman Begins4) Spider-Man 25) Batman6) Superman II7)Iron Man8) Hulk9) X-Men 210) Spider-ManDoes Flash Gordon qualify as a superhero? If so, that nudges into the 6th spot, knocking Spider-Man out of the top 10.
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Stay through ALL the credits to see Sam Jackson as Nick Fury re: the Avengers Initiative.
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Gross.
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http://eattheblinds.blogspot.com/
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I was prepared for a let down after the absolute gush-fest that has been the early review period. I really, thoroughly enjoyed it. A big, great summer entertainment with great pacing. The only slight complaint I had was the slightly anti-climactic final battle, but I liked that the resolution was techy and geeky like the rest of the film. A solid A as far as superhero movies go. Not an A+, but I left grinning ear to ear.
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X2 is still my favorite comic book movie...I would say this is probably behind X2 and Spiderman 2, in terms of the more recent stuff that has come out...I need to watch it again and let it all sink in some more...it was definitely great.
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SOMEBODY finally got it right. Iron Man finally fulfilled all my expectations of what a comic book flick should be- entertaining, action filled, and true to the characters we've come to know and love. I'm not as huge of an Iron Man fan as I am of Batman, but G**DAMMIT that was AWESOME!!!
If you didn't like this movie for whatever reason, then you've completely missed the point of seeing comic flicks all-together. -
Best superhero movie, hands down. ..so far.
Right now it's
1a - Iron Man
1b - Batman Begins
3 - Spider-Man 2 -
it didn't get in the way of the movie the way that shitty Untouchables score did. Christ that's all I could think about through that movie was how fucking bad the score was. That said, this movie kicked major ass and I can't wait for the next one. What a great way to start the Summer. I hope I'm as pleasantly surprised by IJKOTCS.
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May 03, 2008 2:37:05 AM CDT
Don't overhype it harry, but yeah their's no rust anywhere!!
by the founder
IM wasn't great or a masterpiece, but it was very well done and the source material was respected faithfully, although I'm still wondering what happened to the live Jarvis??
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Gotta say I was surprised that i couldn't find any major flaws in the film. I loved the Jet Sequence most of all. Very sweet, and I got that kid feeling, like when i first saw the Matrix.
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it was like watching Star Wars for the first time. It had that kind of impact. I've always loved Iron Man but this movie was very well done.
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That's a pretty poor review, not an 'honest one' by any means. it's the typical comic fanboy review who has his own fantasy of making the movie himself. How, and oscar winner Gwyneth Paltrow "not a strong actress"? right.
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More scary than he was when was in the actual Iron Monger suit. First with the bald Mandarin group leader and then with Stark as he takes the power device out of his chest.
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(1) Did he REALLY just fly from LA to Afghanistan? Without stopping? In ... what? A matter of hours? THAT would impress me more than any of the technology in his house.
(2) What exactly was Stain's plan? To be the MONSTER KILLER CEO who's company is unstoppable because he wears a giant metal suit? I understand he meant to mass market the thing (?), or maybe actually take over the world with it (?) ... okay, I don't understand. I think they just needed a big set piece to end the film, so the guy "went insane" (Pott's words) and that's meant to explain everything.
HAVING SAID THAT ... this film rocked, absolutely. -
flight in around 10 hours round trip. He compared his suit to the SR-71 in the film during altitude testing and trying to break its record. Secondly, you must've been making out with your girlfriend through half of the movie if you're confused with these points.
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1. POSITIVELY a prototype Cpt. America shield on Stark's desk in the workshop. It's on the left side of the screen when it's pointed at Pepper when she enters the lab as he's trying to get out of his suit. It's got half the star, but it's red, white, and blue, and it's IT. Great easter egg.
2. Is it just me, or does reporter Zorianna Kit look exactly like Alison Mack (Chloe of Smallville fame)? A quick Google tells me she's an actual reporter, but the resemblance is striking.
3. For those of you looking for some more emotional connection for Stark for the village he saves from Ten Rings (which I don't think we need), I'm 100% sure that the village is where Yinsen, his sidekick in the cave, was from. Gulmira was its name. So, he was saving the lives of the people who are related to the guy who saved his life earlier in the film. Seems like enough justification, if destroying his weapons wasn't enough for you.
4. Favs' character, Hogan, kind of disappears halfway through the film. Kind of strange. Maybe there's more to his story that got cut out, that'll be in an extended DVD cut.
5. Earlier in the thread I posted a clip of the Nick Fury scene after the credits. It was a little shaky, and had some people talking over it, so I recorded it again, from a tripod (yeah, don't ask me how I got it in the theatre). It's a little better quality because there's no shaking. Here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QGgLZFdINpg -
Wow, it has been a long time. Most of the Super hero movies over the years have been big letdowns for me. X-Men 3, Spiderman 3, Fantastic Four ROTSS were all movies I walked out of the theater afterwards so disappointed that I never even bought those titles on DVD because I really have no desire to ever watch them again. Even something like GHOSTRIDER, a comic I did not read so I was open to anything in the movie version, was a letdown. IRON MAN had me from start to finish with a grin on my face. The movie was just oozing COOL at a 100%. From the look at the first days BO totals we should be in for some great AVENGERS action soon. I like that MARVEL made a film for the "ADULT" fans and didn't water down the thing for idiots and 5 year olds. THANK YOU STAN!
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before i went to see this movie. And it throbbed during the ride to the theater. I really thought that I was about to waster $7 on another shitting marvel movie. And that was the only problem I had with this one. My only faith I had on it was derived from $1 i spent to rent a rip off of Jumanji. But this really felt like a comic book movie. You will get a rocketeer feeling, and an origin story, but a sequel has the ability to feel like an indiana jones or james bond movie. Aside from that though, It took me into the marvel universe. While other marvel movies only showed me a glimpse, like bungee jumping off a bridge only to grab a boob for a split second. Yet, this cord broke. Slinging this movie into my top 5 superhero films and Favreau into my top 10 directors.
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I only had fun watching the Suit on Suit slugfest at the end, and even that wasn't particularly clever. And the film was particularly offensive in the propaganda department. I don't care if all these elements were lifted and transplanted directly from the original comic book, where I hear Iron Man was a pro-military anti-Vietnamese figure. This film was viciously racist. Most of the movie dwelt on bad guys who were dark skinned, bearded, and fabulously hook-nosed. The film jingoistically changed the acronymn of SHIELD to include the word HOMELAND to tie it in to Bush's "Homeland Security". The audience is informed that our military is so good that they refuse to attack enemy military targets when they have "human shields", which totally twists the original use of this term during the Iraq Wars, where this term was used to EXCUSE the deaths of civilians from U.S. bombs, blaming the collateral damage on the enemy targets for being too close to the civilians. How nice of this movie to rehabilitate the U.S. military's reputation in this area. And Tony Stark's sudden decision to stop manufacturing weapons is ... not because his weapons cause civilian deaths at our hands, but because (as far as he knows) SOME of them fell into the hands of the enemy, who then killed some U.S. soldiers with them! No explanation is supplied as to where they get their money from to BUY the weapons, or what Tony Stark's treacherous uncle realistically plans to get out of supplying such weapons to these cartoon monster Terrorists (if it's ever discovered, won't it destroy Stark Industries?). As another reviewer pointed out, it's kinda galling to watch Tony Stark being tortured by drowning him, as a blatant way of shifting the sense of blame from the Waterboarding (which is also drowning) torture used by the U.S. in Guantanamo and other interrogation camps. Oh look, it's the TERRORISTS that do that to an American! I have no idea what relationship the black military guy originally had to Tony Stark in the Comics, but here he is a Top Brass in the U.S. military (hey black people, join up, this movie is providing you with a fantasy of how high you can go!) to further highlight the goodness and decency of our military. And Iron Man proves how heroic he is (after rather viciously killing many unarmoured terrorists) by saving the pilot of a missile-launching U.S. fighter plane. Way to go, Iron Man, you stick up for those decent fighter pilots who never launch while Terrorists hold human shields!
The bits where Tony Stark plays with the prototypes of his suit are fun, and the final Suit vs. Suit slugfest is fun in a nostalgic comicbooky way, but this movie has been WAY overhyped. Robert Downey Jr.'s much vaunted charm sadly failed to amuse me, and I think has been ballyoo'd by rather competent and effective marketing. The way his character is played, he comes off as a rather nasty piece of work, especially in his treatment of his sexual conquests (one of whom is an anti-military-industry reporter, who he seduces and then obnoxiously ignores (with Paltrow's assistant blatantly referring to as "trash" ... take that anti-war activists!). One high school guy hooted with delight every time Downey's Stark dissed another woman he'd slept with in the past, when he failed to remember her name. Hooray for misogyny as well jingoistic bashing of any anti-war attitudes. I've always found Gwyneth Paltrow beautiful, and she's especially so in this, dressed up as a 40's style glam princess. Every moment on the screen was an eye candy treat. But her romantic chemistry with Downey's Stark is way way below the sparks the hype has been reporting. All in all, I'd say this is another one of those superhero movies that gets it's positive buzz from immature, insecure comic book fanboys whose idea of a good comic book adaption is to have it have a dark, violent, "badass" edge to it. These people will rate this highly because they got to see the human version of a tank kill people with no real defense against him. It's another step downwards for heroism and idealism, and another step towards militarizing the population through Entertainment. Hooray! -
May 04, 2008 2:16:21 AM CDT
Should have been "Was I the only one disturbed by Iron Man"
by nodiggity
Blast it. Bad way to headline a nice rant.
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And I say that despite the musical score, which COULD have given this movie the spit-polish it deserves. But these boots were made for walkin', and that's just what they'll do (...or, at least, SHOULD do, given time for the word-of-mouth to spread). I admit that I was originally against Robert Downey Jr.'s casting as Tony Stark. My reasoning was that there's an aspect of Stark's personality (from what I remember, reading as a kid) that I couldn't "see" in RDJ. To me, Tony Stark is naturally a LEADER OF MEN, the kind of focused personality trait that's not found quite as often as one might think. Maybe it's just me, but it's something that I sensed about the character...and I suppose, in my young eyes, it may have been the impression of the material. What RDJ does do, so right,...is that he covers all those other bases, all those other aspects of Tony Stark's personality. With this type of role, RDJ has got big superhero shoes to fill...and yet, he made Tony Stark believable in the context of the fantasy, a part at which a much lessor actor may not have been quite so successful. I'm glad that RDJ has cleaned up his life and can share his talent through a character which deserves much more of the superhero spotlight. (Swing around that Bat-signal!) And excellent work from the entire cast. And not only that, but one of my favorite things about this movie was the practical effects, with how mechanical props fit together and become in sync...and how the line between practical and CGI effects are blurred. That sense of the equipment being real (most of the time), practical effects or not, is a big factor in making such a fantasy a two hour reality. And this movie deserves praise from top to bottom, other than that boot-scuff of a music-score. So, a big "Thank You" to all involved, from direction on down,...in making this an incredible moving picture (which tends to be all too rare of a treat). And Sam Jackson's surprise appearance, after ALL the end-credits roll by, "is so money" that Hollywood doesn't even know it. ("Project Avenger" could possibly be the next Star Wars, in terms of cinema explosion.) Seriously, "IRON-MAN" is arguably the best superhero flick of all time...and perhaps my very favorite, if I had to pick only one.
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You reading Favreau? Fucking terrible.
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When Tony Stark was captured by the terrorists, why did they ask him to build the missile system when they are already supplied and in cahoots with Obadiah Stane, wouldn't they just ask from Stane. And why would Stane keep doing business with them when they failed to kill Stark. I love the movie, I just can't get past this question.
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It's tough to get the essence of a comic book character right. Favreau nailed it with Iron Man. RDJ proved he was not only sufficient, but inspired as Tony Stark/Iron Man. Very good movie. Tons o' fun! The main reason I go the theater is for films like this one. Exciting, romantic, funny and somewhat fantasaical. Well done! Can't wait for the blu-ray dvd!!
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I was going to attack your post point by insipid point, but I think I've decided that you don't actually believe any of it, and are just trolling, so I'll leave you be.
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Why did they change the meaning of SHIELD's acronymn to include HOMELAND? It never was HOMELAND in the comic books. Why are they trying to make a super-secrete, extra-legal organization uniquely American and Republican? Why do you think they did that? Why do you think they insisted on poisoning a comic book movie with pro-Bush-era propaganda?
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$200 million worldwide and counting. Not bad for a movie with pro-Bush-era propoganda.
Coming up next on Sarcasm Showcase: complaints why Tony Stark should have been in Vietnam instead of Afghanistan.
Spare us the politics, OK? It's a guy flying around in an armored suit. -
It's a shame that the Gi Joe movie couldnt be like this.
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He's a Technocrat and an idealist.
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Everyone knows if the guy'd said 'Hazard' that we'd instantly know they were talking about SHIELD. Changing it to 'Homeland' makes it sound like a real program, and less comic booky, so that the reveal would work.
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IRON MAN? will he be in the next dictatormovie teaming up? I saw the trailer for a new movie about a man who takes over the world. He had a pet pig and he was dressed in a military uniform. Did anyone else see it? it was called dictatormovie I think. soon he will hook up with iron man!
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...and $200 million worldwide. Hello, Iron Man 2!I gave my review in the comments for Moriarty's review, but I'll say it here again: I thought it was terrific, the cast was superb, and it just simply got everything right. The four lead actors took a simple story to a higher level.The only thing that didn't grab me was the "surprise" after the credits--it felt forced and wooden and the actor playing you-know-you didn't work for me. He looked and sounded the same as always, unlike the rest of the cast. It'll be better to see him in action, I'm sure.
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I saw it firsthand--there were two tiresome geeks sitting behind me in the theater, having an ongoing circle-jerk over who was savvier about the movie, the comics, the film studios, blah blah blah (fortunately not during the movie itself, which made it tolerable, in a pathetic sort of way). One of them even mentioned AICN and enjoyed calling Harry by first name only (unlikely that he was an acquaintence, this being central Missouri). Anyway, they were actually fooled and didn't get it until the agent finally said "SHIELD". (I got it immediately--the SHIELD agent was a great throwback to a very similar character in the early days of the Iron Man comic.)As much as I have enjoyed the things I learn on this site, the tiresome dialogue of the geeks behind me really made me think about whether we know too much in this day and age. I'm not sure I heard one thought, opinion, conjecture, or anything else that wasn't just parroting something I've read online--a sort of geek test of who's more "in the know", which for 99.9% of the world is just a matter of who read what story online.It's like all the talk-radio zombies spouting their identical right-wing message points: seems like almost everyone has drunk some kind of Kool-Aid these days.Fortunately
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It was an extra, unfortunate "fortunately" in my last comment--just wanted to clarify that I don't think everyone drinking the Kool-Aid is a good thing.
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I just came back from watching Iron Man (for the second time).I was impressed with how the movie respected the original source. In terms of the acting, story , etc., what can I add that has not been said here.Robert DowneyJr. is the perfect Tony Stark.
The cameo by Nick Fury was the cherry on the ice cream, on the pie.
I was a collector of Iron Man comics as a child.I was such a fan that I called MEGO and asked them if they could make action figures of Flash,Green Lantern or Iron Man.
The person at MEGO, answered "Ok".
Then, to my surprise, an Iron Man action figure arrived in the mail, several weeks later. To note, the action figure was released to the market,months later.
Thanks to Mr.Favreau,Downey Jr
and every one involved in making my dream come true.
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get your asses to the theater and see that joint again, son. God bless Fav.
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...and loved every damn second of it. The way that Favreau weaved all of the geeky comic lore into the story so that it can be enjoyed by comic fans and regular movie goers was fan-fucking-tastic. Example: Stane explaining that "we are iron mongers, Tony, that's what we do", or something to that effect. Now they didnt have come out have Jeff Bridges declare "I am IRON MONGER" but it got included nonetheless. My fiance , who has no prior knowledge of Iron Mane, went with me to see this and loved it as well. By the way, I am really glad some dork on Fandango told everyone to stay after the credits, cause the 20-30 people that actually stayed got served a special treat. Hopefully a sign of things to come. Come on Hulk, dont suck!!!
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(are you listening DC?) to leave these stories clear the fuck alone when translating this stuff to the screen. People much more talented than these shitty insipid directors and writers have spent much more time, effort, and talent creating these things and changing them to your own shitty ideas doesn't work. This movie was a fucking thing of beauty. It wasn't perfect but it was so faithful and cool it doesn't fucking matter. Fav nailed this fucker!
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I'm thinking that the T2 music soundtrack would have been great inspiration for "IRON MAN" ...and such an inspired score could have really put this flick in another realm, all it's own.
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Harry... If you haven't heard of the Warren Theatres, you should. Here in Moore, Oklahoma..just north of Norman, Warren has just opened their new, $32 million theatre. Dolby Digital Cinema, THX audio for every screen, not just a couple. This is a two story building as there is a Grand Auditorium and a Balcony. Yes, those are in UPPER CASE, because they are simply amazing. You see, the Warren has 2 restaurants and a lounge where you can order a meal and ADULT BEVERAGES. Yes, the Warren has a liquor license. AND...you can eat and drink DURING THE MOVIE! Each 26 inch wide, ultra-comfortable seat has a table and a call button for your wait staff. Ours was Floyd...a great guy who took great care of us. My son and I bought seats, B15 and B16, for the Sunday noon showing of IRON MAN. We made our way into the beautifully appointed lobby, noting the working fireplace in the lower level restroom / lougne area. Leather sofas, chairs...everything first class. A large sweeping staircase atkes you upstairs to the Lounge and Blacony seating entrance. You must be 21, so we had to show I.D. to proceed beyond the top of the stairs. After being seated, we perused the full menu, met Floyd (I'll be taking care of you today...and he did!), and selected chesse fries and root beer floats for our movie meal. Our seats were outstanding; almost dead center, looking at a beautifully appointed auditorium. The screen was covered by an old fashioned curtain. NO ads, no music, no distractions before the curtain went. Warren eschews the "hell, they're trapped in the seat...inundate them with commercials" scheme completely. I loved it. Our food arrived during the previews...The Dark Knight, Indy, and a couple more I can't remember as I was wolfing fries at this point. Warren makes a short announcement, basically thanking us for coming, and then the curtain rises slowly as the screen lights up. So, we were totally comfortable, had food and drink at hand, and Floyd waiting for the press of the red call button (each seat has one) should we need more sustenance during the movie. After the Dolby Digital Cinema and THX logos did their thing, IRON MAN started. I would agree with most critics...this is a GREAT SUPERHERO movie. Yes, it compares very much to Batman Begins and the 1978 Superman movies. Fantastic job. The presentation itself was amazing. The kids at Warren have done their job dialing in the picture and sound. No artifacts, clicks, pops, dropouts, smears, pixellation....nothing. The picture was so clear that during the part with Pepper in Tony's office, when she accessed the "Ghost Drive" and opened Stane's files, you could see a nice little Easter Egg on the 3rd or 4th folder in; something called the Lebowski project on the upper right of the folder. My son and I loved that and several other little things like that, throughout the movie. About 20 minutes from the end, Floyd presented our food bill very unobtrusively and we settled up. Didn't detract at all; these people have done their homework. All in all, I would say I'm now ruined for the average cineplex as I can't imagine seeing a movie anyplace else. It's like flying first class; after that, sitting in coach just sucks! In closing, if you are on I-35 and going through the Oklahoma City area, plan on a stop at the Warren....you won't regret it, except it may ruin other theatres for you as well! A note on prices; regular stadium seating is $7 for matinees, $9 for evening shows. The Balcony and Auditorium are $12 and $18, respectively. If you purchase tickets for the Balcony or Auditorium at the Box Office (staffed by lovely people), you can pick your seats from a chart. Yes, reserved seats for a movie and dinner. Fantastic! If you purchase tickets from the Warren website or at the walk-up ticket kiosk, you CAN'T pick your seat, but the system will pick the best available, contigious seats for you. So, movie, food, and tip added up to about $46 for two. For me, it was well worth the price. With Speed Racer, Indy, and The Dark Knight coming, I expect I'll be spending more time and money at the Warren. Highest Recommendation.
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May 05, 2008 3:47:42 PM CDT
Stain's plan & IM flying to Afghanistan? Who cares really.
by the founder
Stain's plans was to sell new weapontry in the form of the suit, nothing to scratch head over. IM flying to the mid-east is no big deal. The suit's pretty fast, probably took him an hour or he simply flew up in high planetary orbit and and dopped down when the mid east came around or something of that nature. I saw Stark do it before in the comic book.
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I wasn't going to bother with this movie until I saw it got 91% on the tomato meter. And apparently everyone here thought it was the best superhero movie ever. Aside from a few laughs and some good CGI, I'm not sure what makes it better than the others. It certainly, in no way approached either of the first two X-Men or Spiderman movies, IMO. I'm not even sure what the Stark dude stands for, other than "he likes cool gadgets." I didn't care whether he lived or died. It was predictable, unrealistic (even for the genre), had lame underdeveloped characters (the assistant aside) and a non-existent plot. I guess I'm getting too old for this shit.
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Shell head has always been one of my favorite heroes in the Marvel universe. I can't help but laugh at posts from people like Maltheus and others. If you went into this without being a fan in the first place, I can only ask why. I'm not a fan of chick flicks, I don't get them, and I don't go see them. It only makes sense. Stick with what you like and stop torturing yourselves. Oh, and Maltheus, you're not too old, Iron man has been around for a loooooong time. You just never cared to read it. Now I think I'll rent Gone With The Wind and go post on some forum about how boring it is and how I was hoping someone would just kill Scarlet off. I can't wait for IRON MAN 2!
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Your mental illness must be a very painful thing. Pathetic. Psychotherapy would be helpful.
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Seriously NoDiggity, it has "homeland" in the name because that's the fashionable word this decade. It makes it feel more real. Now if you think this movie was pro bush... I think missed the entire movie. The military complex is completely corrupt in this movie.
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You sir, are an idiot. What about the fact that all the action sequences were mediocre at best? Other than that, it was a GOOD movie. If not a predictable one. Not a GREAT one like Harry said. Christ Harry! Revenge of the Sith was GREAT! Spiderman 3 was GREAT! Cloverfield was GREAT! Pirates: Dead Man's Chest is GREAT! Everything is just fucking GREAT in your book! Isn't, Harry? Try being objective for once. You fat bastard!
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May 07, 2008 12:02:40 AM CDT
YouTube Has 2 Clips: Jet Pack Man At The Alamo Drafthouse
by red dawn don
In the longer clip you can see the HOT BLONDE GIRL ASSISTANT come up and turn off the knobs for the JET PACK. What a TECH-BABE. Harry are you seen in the Videos? I looked. Neat to see the exterior of the ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE though fleeting.
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May 07, 2008 1:01:42 AM CDT
Poster Ninja Nerd: One Fine New Theatre You Have In OKLAHOMA
by red dawn don
After your great write up I googled it up. It came up as warrentheatres.c_m I even clicked on the 2 page menu. I am green with ENVY. What a great way to see a movie. I wonder if Dayton Ohio will have something like it in the near future. Look out ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE the word is out.
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theaters with a bar and waitress service. Iron Man is probably the best Superhero genre movie ever made, and I've seen everything since the late 70's in theaters. I was a huge doubter about RDJ playing the Role but he did a bang-up job. The dialog and acting were cut above every other examples. It was fun to watch a Superhero who LIKED being a Superhero and there wasn't one "Oh god that was awful" cringe-worthy line in the film. The only real criticizm I can come up with is that while they were smart and kept the most of the blatant far left bullshit that the fuckwits on this site eat up, out of the film, they just had to fuck with Nick Fury and make him black.
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Obadiah Stane intially wanted Tony out of the way, so he paid 10 Rings to kill him, but 10 Rings had a different plan, they were going to use Tony Stark to make the missles, then afterwords kill him. Afterall, why should they waste more money on weapons from Stark Industries when they have captured Tony Stark around to build them? This is why I think 10 Rings upped the price of killing Tony Stark, to buy time so that Tony could continue building the weapons. Once Obadiah found out about the supersuit, his new plan was to steal the idea to build his own new superweapon. But his plan was foiled by Pepper Pots when she stole the information from his computer and reported him to S.H.I.E.L.D. Once Stane was discovered and S.H.I.E.L.D. had him cornered, he had no choice but to get in the suit to avoid getting arrested.
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Jackson as Nick Fury??? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why?Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? Why? I know it's supposed to be the new Ultimate Nick Fury which was designed with Jackson in mind but for fuck sake! The original Fury is crying out to be portrayed on screen! That could hev been a great role for a heavyweight actor with huge presence (bit wild here but imagine Day-Lewis with the white hair and a patch!) and not that fucking hack Jackson! That really spolied what was a very enjoyable movie, it was like getting to the end of a brilliant rollercoaster only to be sucker-punched in the stomach as you stepped off! What a disappointment!
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... i'll be surprised if the fantasy politics of this film doesn't make countries that are not the US roll their eyes in cynical skepticism.
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Incredible movie. That is how it is done. Superb job all around. Incredible movie!!!!!
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He's 60!!! I did not know that. I wonder if he is going to say something "I am mother fu*&ing tired of these mother fu*&ing avengers on this god damned team!"
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between the seats again, coz i do not recall seeing Sam Jackson in this movie at all! What the hell was I doing? Is this real?
And am I the only one who thinks its not as good as people are making out? Everything has to be great or shite around here....hows about 'very good', ie. 4 stars, because it was just that. The end was 'hmm yes thats nice just kill the bad man and lets go now shall we' type ending, and the music really does let it down. And I still dont feel the sense of 'epic' in new movies.....I dont know what the difference is but Superman II for example seems like a huge story with a grandiose ending....I just dont feel this with anything these days. Anyway, it was a good film and now im going to drink some wine. Love Jeffrey xxx -
and to defend Maltheus a little further up, he didnt say he didnt like Comic Book adaptations, he probably does and went to see this film and thought what a couple of other people think, that its MILDLY overrated. Again, VERY good, but not incredible. Problem is theres not much competition so it seems great, though gotta say that I was absolutely buzzing after Batman Begins but not this. I just came out and rang my mum to say i was gonna be late for tea coz i didnt have enough money for a bus. Hmmmm
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People have differing opinions on films, you arrogant douche, I didn't like Spiderman 3 either, but jesus, calm the fuck down. You clearly signed up to post on Harry's site, so if you're so disgusted with him, why the fuck are you here? Instead of keeping track of this guy's reviews maybe you should try finding something else to do, since you clearly don't share his views. You evidently have plenty of time on your hands that you're utilizing to catalog what films this reviewer enjoyed, maybe you should try writing your own. It never ceases to amaze me that every bitter netwad in the world has plenty of time to tell other people they suck, and then they continue to frequent said individual's website. Get a fucking life.
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May 10, 2008 2:46:58 PM CDT
You people are the most jaded losers I've ever encountered
by scytheofluna
This film trumps every Marvel film to date. Period. The only superhero movie that is on par with this is Batman Begins, and other than Sin City, Hellboy, or 300, I can't think of a comic book adaptation that was truer to the source material, even though those aren't superhero comics. In fact I'll go so far as to say that Spiderman, Fantastic 4, Daredevil, Punisher, and X Men will have to be remade to even be worthy of sitting on a shelf with this film, that's how good it was. If you care about the character of Iron Man, and you didn't like this film, something is wrong with you, and you should be prevented from breeding.
You guys are seriously some bitter motherfuckers, and nothing will ever please you if you didn't enjoy that film, because there's nothing they could have done to improve it. You're some sad fucks gang. Stop going to see movies. They've handed you the best Non-Batman adaption of a superhero comic, and you're shitting on it. It's a good thing that you dumb fucks are in the minority. -
Zips along at craking pace. That scene with Obidah Stane and Tony Stark near the end of the movie. You know the scene I am talking about. Great acting from Bridges a scene of real menace and threat. great stuff. Why was paramount so tentative about the afghanistan aspect of the story thougb. Were they worried about the box office kick regarding War on Terror. 200 million in its 1st 4 days. I dont know. Story was flimsy and they seemed to be in a rush get stark suited up. Very good film though. Stronger story next time please. Platrow has quit the film business. she has no interest in it anymore. Said so herself.
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I finally got around to seeing Iron Man over the weekend. While it wasn't bad, I felt like it's been wayyyy overrated by critics. What was the big deal? It was just another comic book adaptation. Hell, parts of it even dragged. The villains lacked charisma, and I didn't have any sympathy for the Tony Stark character. I definitely won't be seeing the inevitable sequel in the theater. The best part about the whole Iron Man experience was seeing the Indiana Jones trailer on the big screen for the first time. Now that is a movie worth waiting for.
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May 12, 2008 9:40:17 AM CDT
Way overrated according to you. However, you are nobody.
by scytheofluna
But since it's pretty clear you don't care about the comics, that doesn't really speak to the quality of the film. The "big deal" was that this was truer to the spirit of the comics than any recent superhero adaptation aside from Batman Begins. If you grew up reading Marvel comics, or cared about the characters you wouldn't have had the reaction you had, those of us who grew up with Tony Stark loved the movie, you are clearly not a fan. If the film dragged, you have no attention span though, because in terms of origin stories, this one was beat for beat spot on, fast paced, even funny without being inappropriately so. Unlike Spiderman which featured too many scenes of Tobey McGuire standing slack-jawed and staring off into the distance, this film features a protagonist who has a true crisis of conscience and steps into action without a whole lot of whiny introspective nonsense. Seeing his ingenuity in the technology he creates being used on the very people he sought to protect transforms his very outlook on the world, and in that one defining moment the entire focus of his genius is directed towards rectifying those wrongs. If that doesn't inspire you, you're a callous douche. Robert Downey Jr. WAS Tony Stark, and if you somehow missed that, well, maybe Iron Man isn't the movie or comic for you. Fortunately you're in the tiny, insignificant minority since even the most jaded true believers loved the film. I agree Indy looks good, but jesus, what did you expect with Iron Man? It was exactly what it was supposed to be and it blew every recent Marvel adaptation out of the water, THATS what the "Big deal" is. Do you even read comic books, or are you another one of those people who just goes to whatever big action movie that comes out, and then bitches that he didn't get what the "big deal" was?
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I admit, I have never read an Iron Man comic in my life. That most likely contributed to my mediocre view of the film. But many of the movie critics who gave Iron Man stellar reviews aren't familiar with the comic book either. Based in their perspective, Iron Man just didn't blow my skirt up.
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Though it was cool from a comic book reader's standpoint to see all the armors in full force.
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Batman Begins. Honestly. Casting was perfect. Jeff Bridges as Obidiah Stain was inspired, he looks like stepped off the comic panel and then he turns on the jeff Bridges Charm and it's disarming and a litte bit creepy at the same time. Gweneth Paltrow was a revealation as Pepper Potts she inhabited that role hich was deceptivel complex and gave it real life and deminsion. Downey's Stark would not have been complete without Paltrow's Pepper. Speaking of Stark, you ere the term new kind of hero thrown around a lot and it's usually bullshit. Here we really have o0ne. Stark is everybit the venal elf indulgent dilataunt that Bruce Wayne pretends to be, and he never completely loses that. And Downey plays the playboy with a growning conscience with equal parts wit and heart. There is in fact een in his development of his armour a since of a child at play, as wel as a man rediscoverng his true calling. He is a tinkerer and his work is a hotrod mechanic's and a computergeeks wet dream brought to screen. The working out the kinks scenesd recall the Batman Begins gadget application scenes and it's a joy to watch. In fact this film takes a few notes from Batman Begin's, not the least of which is the man trying to take responsibility for is father's legacy and the surroate father figture, and his struggle with the expectations of those use to seeing him in a different way. Downey never losses his humor or his irony as defense mechanisms, but he does have a sincere desire to undo the harm his company's done. Like Charlie Wilson he's found a new lease on life n his neew mission, and can no longer imagine living his life without that purpose. the test piloting scenes are a joy to watch. You Just want one oof those damned suits for yourself when you se him take his first flight. I also the sense of truth to the characters in the final battle. These aren't warriors or soldiers. They don't know how to fight. One of them doesn't even know the technology or physics behind it. It recalls the Robocop 2 badguy with all the big harware and not knowing how to use it. I also like that Stark outthinks the badguy instead of out muscling him. Using knowledge past experiments with the armour and knowledge of the nature of the technology he invented to win despite his disadvatages. It was just done in a satifying way. Terrence Howard was great as Jim Rhoedes though a tad underused. I'll love to see him as War Machine in a sequel. And do not leave he theater until the credits finish. The extra tag scene is worth the wait beleive me.
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May 15, 2008 9:12:34 AM CDT
And the Dark Knight Trailer was Dogs Balls Fucking awesome
by crichtonastronut
That shit's gonna be epic. And so is the Indiana Jones movie. If that shit is haf as good as it's trailer, we're talking Raiders of the Lost Ark territory. At long last the series get back to it's genius roots. I always thought Crusade was pretty damn cool and way better than Temple, but this may well take second place after Raiders. And back to TDK Joker and Two Face are gonna be some of the coolest comic book movie villains not just of the, but f all time. Do not miss that movie.
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be an awesome summer. And Hellboy II is also gonna rock.
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announced that she is quitting the film business. it holds no interest for her anymore. as for indy.
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after an hour, which is dialoug heavy and kind of drags. The movie explodes into life in the 2nd half.
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I'm psyched for Hellboy II as well....So emeraldboy, since I'm avoiding the main Indy thread right now, how does it compare to the other Indy films? Is it more or less a quality addition to the Indy universe?
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Admit it. 'Fess up.
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I enjoyed this one too,Tony Stark was quality.
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Yeah. Multi-billionaire industrialist scion gets epiphany after being hit by reality. Goes into a ' lost phase ' - with a ' League of Shadows ' esque group he ' obliterates ' in his escape. Comes back out of it pursuing greater good. Effectively shut out from own company since, albeit maintaining token position; new CEO assuming most corporate duties. Still funnels company's resources to his ‘mission’. He builds himself into super-vigilante; an idea that ‘League of Shadows’ esque group was unwittingly responsible for. Same terror group later turns up alive and procuring his company's munitons from right under his nose. His mentor, the ' father figure' that sort of ' trained ' him and helped build his mileage, is actually their quasi-head master; angry and pissed at him for not having same design for the planet. Final showdown ensues between them across the cityscape. Only breezier, with violence more smokescreened, and bit lesser stakes. Mentor and new CEO are also the same person this time. You know.
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Best comic book adaptation I have EVER seen. Downey just owned this role. I've seen this film three times already - love it EVERYTIME!
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iIn the sequel I hope!
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