OK for kids 13+
Downey whips out the big guns, sexy banter in fun sequel.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this sequel to Iron Man has even more explosions and action than the original, but it also ups the snarky humor and sexual innuendo. The two biggest concerns for parents are violence (while there's not much blood, there are plenty of bombs, weapons, and fights, as well as two men who are briefly shown hanging to death) and consumerism (several brands are featured again and again to the point that the movie seems like an expensive commercial for Audi, especially). Although there is only one climactic kiss, there are lots of double entendres and innuendo-filled jokes that may go over the heads of tweens and younger teens. Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark, is still not the role model of power and responsibility that Peter Parker is, but he knows when and how to help. Scarlett Johansson's character is strong, but she's so objectified it's hard to think of her as a role model to young girls.
- Families can talk about the immense popularity (and profitability) of comics-based movies and superheroes. What do you think is the appeal of superhero flicks? And what's up with sequels? Why do you think almost every superhero movie has at least one sequel?
- Are weapons of war glamorized in the movie? Should weapons be portrayed as that shiny and cool? What message does this send?
- Ivan Vanko is obviously a criminal, but is he justified in feeling wronged by the Stark family? Who is on the right side of the argument?
- Tony Stark says he doesn't need a sidekick, but in the end, he does need Rhodey's help. Is Rhodey more than a sidekick? How is their relationship different than the typical hero-sidekick dynamic?
- In the world of superheroes, Tony stands apart as a pretty selfish rich guy outside of his Iron Man persona. Discuss how he's different than other comic-book heroes like Peter Parker/Spider-Man and Bruce Wayne/Batman?
The good stuff
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Messages: Once again, it's clear (for the most part) who's "good" and who's "evil." Tony Stark learns the lesson that just because you think you're going to die doesn't mean you should care only about yourself. Iron Man also discovers the importance of honesty and cooperation. He couldn't have defeated his enemy alone, but when he teamed up with his best friend, he was twice as powerful. That said, the female characters -- both primary and secondary -- are largely love interests or highly sexualized, even if they are strong and capable.
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Role models: Despite the negative role models of the vengeful Ivan and the greedy Hammer, there are a couple of positive role models: Pepper Potts is a very loyal, honest, and caring character (if a bit whiny), and Lt. Col. Rhodes is probably the best role model, because he is willing to contradict Iron Man for the greater good, but he also trusts him enough to fight by his side when the situation calls for it. Tony Stark is an arrogant, self-avowed narcissist who tends to put his needs first but in the end always does the "right" thing to help others.
What to watch for
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Violence: Lots of explosions and several dead bodies in the movie. One person dies of illness or old age, but the rest of the body count is from explosions and in two cases, hanging (that's the worst scene). Iron Man and Rhodey have a big fight that smashes up Stark's house and leaves both of them passed out. The fights with Ivan, including the climactic sequence, are the most violent, but there's almost no blood. Since Stark and his competitor Hammer are weapons designers, the weapons in the movie are fairly glamorized, especially the ones Hammer Industries creates, which Hammer shows off in an almost sexual manner to army officers.
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Sex: Although there is only one big kiss, there are several scenes that feature women dressed provocatively, especially Natalie (Scarlett Johansson) and a group of Stark dancers. There is a great deal of sexual innuendo in Stark's dialogue, particularly when he talks to or about Natalie, who in a couple of scenes is shown in her bra and in every other scene is wearing skin-tight, cleavage-baring outfit.
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Language: Mild language ("stupid," "idiot," "damn," a couple instances of "ass", one use of "bitches" and a few "God"s as exclamations), but what's of note is the amount of sexual innuendo. Stark routinely says things like: "I serve this great country at the pleasure of myself, and if there's one thing you can count on, it's me pleasuring myself" or "I want one" (in reference to Natalie).
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Consumerism: Several brands appear again and again, like Audi, which has at least two of its vehicle fleet featured prominently (including gratuitous close-ups of Audi's interlocking rings logo), in addition to its name/logo as part of the "Stark Expo" sponsors. Another heavily promoted brand is Oracle, and there is also a Rolls Royce. Pepper wears Christian Laboutin shoes with their conspicuous red soles and carries Louis Vuitton luggage. Real-life news anchors like CNN's Christiane Amanpour and Fox News' Bill O'Reilly's shows are shown.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Adult characters drink vodka, wine, champage and cocktails at dinners, parties, and to have congratulatory toasts. Stark gets drunk at his birthday party, and Ivan is often shown drinking vodka (sometimes straight from the bottle).
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Iron Man Returns by Scruffitude
It's rare to say that a sequel is better than the original, but Iron Man 2 improves on the original in just about every way.
The plot is superb. We know who Tony Stark is and here we get to see a more vulnerable side to him, as we learn early on that something is wrong with him. The main villain in this film is much more menacing and believable, and is played brilliantly by Mickey Rourke. Another villain is Sam Rockwell playing Justin Hammer, a twisted version of Tony Stark. There's also Scarlett Johansson as the quirky yet likable Natalie Rushman (who has a secret of her own).
My only complaint is the film feels rushed at times, and that major problems were solved too easily. Also, the humor got a bit too silly sometimes.
If you're avoiding this because they replaced Terrence Howard with Don Cheadle, don't. Cheadle nearly steals the entire movie; he's that good. And then of course there's Gwyneth, who has a much more prominent role. Altogether, it's a great film and a great cast.
5
Iron Man 2 Movie Review by vaanan_kannan
Let me say it right off the beginning..Iron Man 2...Is simply one hell of a fun ride that should NOT be missed!Robert Downey Jr. plays a perfect portrayal of Tony Stark and his..how did Nick Fury put it across? oh yeah...'Textbook Narcissism' :-) Continuing the tradition of the first movie, Iron Man 2 continues the fun factor with action along the lines of the original. My only quip here was that there could have been a little more action, especially in the climax battle with Whiplash...And with the introduction of the various characters setting the perfect stage for the assembling of the Avengers like Nick Fury, the War Machine, and of course:The Black Widow (Sidenote: Scarlett Johansson- simply WOH!!!), the movie simply amps it up! And Easter Eggs galore!Captain America's Shield(check!) But to use it as a balance support to even out the height of Tony's new toy???Double check!!! But NOTHING could beat the final easter egg after the credits -By Odin!!! Iron Man 2-Simply a must watch!
5
What a blast! by Movie_Buff_86
I just saw "Iron Man 2" today and it was even more amazing than the first. There are tons of action and battle scenes throughout the movie which will keep you on the edge of your seat. If you want to start your summer off right, i suggest seeing "Iron Man 2" to kick it off. There are many new characters in this movie and you will not be dissapointed at all. "Iron Man 2" is a movie for all ages!
5
Iron Man 2 by chefrosshirt
There was a lot of hype surrounding the release of iron Man 2 and, as an avid Comic Book Fan, I had some pretty high expectations of this movie as well. I must say that I was not disappointed. This film was exceptional in every way, from the action scenes, the humorous dialog and the throw-ins to other popular Marvel Characters. I was happy to see the War Machine suit as well as the Mark IV, and Mark V suits. Downey Jr. was brilliant in this film and Don Cheadle played a great Rhodie. The film is equally suitable for children and adults, which is important to me as I have three children. I will be watching this movie again and again.
5
Five Word Review by wifeofamovieaddict
I cant wait for part3
4
Iron Man 2 by orangeboy1kd
Nice movie but i like Terrence Howard better. This isn't a movie to take your kids it might be boring to them if they don't understand the plot.
1
Stolen by sergal
S.J. is stolen biological material, taken against will and formed to clones line 200 pieces total. Sign of dangerous criminal activity. Original Scarlett Galabekian educated and licensed pediatrician doctor.
There is no Scarlett Johansson original exist !
4
Iron Man II by IronManLou
Iron Man was done folowing the basic comic book story lines.It was done well with great action and special effects. It didn't have the impact of the original which I considered to be a first rate film, probably the best of the comic book genre I had seen so far, with Robert Downey creating a Tony Stark that quite frankly made the movie a blockbuster.
The sequel was quite frankly a sequel, and the Tony Stark character became more of a buffoon, emotionally stunted lacking real development rather than the responsible super hero Stan Lee created. It was this image that made Iron Man a super hero, a leader, despite not having any real super powers. It was not the suit that made him. Mr. Downey captured that quality in the first movie and is suprisingly lacking in the second.
Still performances were adequate, humour trite and predictable, and action superb. Its a don't miss for comic book afficiaonados and very entertaining either way. Kids and game freaks would be captivated.
4
Great family movie by moe12moe
This pictur was action packed form begining to end. I really liked that it was kid friendly were I could sit with my son without covering his eyes or ears. It also had a real good story line to follow with out jumping form one idea to another. You will love the action that takes place, to the point I was flying my arms and legs to help Iron Man fight the villain. As you will see he had more then enough help without giving the story away. This is agreat movie for the family to watch together and have much to talk about after the show. The MUSIC in the movie even has you partying in your seat. Enjoy the show!
5
Five Word Review by EzraHugeReview
Absolutely Amazing, But Not Better