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I have a one word review for "Ironman," WOW. That's it, I could quit right now but I guess I'd better tell you why it's a WOW. Robert Downey Jr. is fabulous as Tony Stark, the playboy/genius/patriot who heads Stark Industries, the world's pre-eminent weapons manufacturer. After demonstrating a spectacularly devastating new weapon in to U.S. forces in Afghanistan, his convoy is attacked and Stark, near death, is taken prisoner. A fellow captive, a genius in his own right, saves his life with a primitive devise to keep shrapnel from entering Starks heart, a devise Stark dramatically improves. His captors instruct Stark to recreate the weapon he just demonstrated and supply him with everything he needs all from his own manufacturing plants. Ah, where did they get this stuff? Not wanting to reveal too much, suffice it to say, Stark does not recreate the weapon…he builds an iron suit which facilitates his escape. Calling all of this a life changing experience is an understatement and Tony Stark resolves to use his genius and his company for a greater good…..which is easier said than done. I'm going to leave it at that. "Ironman" is terrific with off the charts special effects, compelling characters including Gwyneth Paltrow as Starks assistant, Pepper Potts; Jeff Bridges as Obadiah Stane, who shares leadership in Stark Industries and Terrance Howard, Tony's long-time friend, Col. Jim Rohdes. It's been a while since we've had such a cool movie. "Ironman" is perfect as the early kick off to the summer season….4 stars and it's rated PG-13. Another movie out this weekend, "Made of Honor." Patrick Dempsey and Michelle Monaghan star as Tom and Hannah. Since college, they've been best friends seeing each other through good times and bad and innumerable relationships….especially Tom's shallow escapades. Well, when Hannah falls in love and tells Tom she's getting married, he freaks and realizes she's the one for him. Is any of this sounding familiar….well, it follows a well worn path to the brink of her nuptials where…..really, can't you fill in the blanks. Nothing new here, but there are some sweet moments and Monaghan is quite charming. It's an overly familiar, formulaic, romantic comedy that gets 2 ½ stars and it's rated PG-13.
