OK for kids 13+
Great action, lots of style, some iffy stuff.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that kids may clamor to see this fast-paced, action-packed comic book-based adventure. But it's definitely more age-appropriate for teens than younger children. Although much of the violence is clearly meant to be based in the realm of sci-fi and fantasy -- and/or is shown at a distance -- there's plenty of it, from massive explosions to children held at gunpoint to super-powered fistfights. Some of the violence is war themed, and some characters get hurt and/or die. While much is made of lead character Tony Stark's devil-may-care lifestyle of fun and frolic, viewers also see him turn away from the more irresponsible aspects of playboyhood. Language is minimal, and sexual content is more suggested than shown overall -- though there are a few eyebrow-raising moments.
- Families can talk about the popularity of comic book movies. Do they speak to escapism or darker fantasies about power?
- How does the fact that much of the movie's violence is based in fantasy affect its impact? How is it different watching human characters get hurt than robots and other beings?
- Iron Man may be a do-gooder, but he's no Boy Scout. Can heroic characters still be flawed? Does that make them more heroic or less?
The good stuff
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Messages: "Good guys" and "bad guys" are pretty clearly delineated, but there's some ethical iffiness on both sides. Extensive discussion of the morality of weapons sales, as well as the nature and character of maintaining peace through possession of the biggest guns.
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Role models: Tony is carefree playboy who eventually discovers a conscience and tries to do good. He's initially captured by terrorists, but another character offers him aid, assistance, and moral guidance. The movie's villain is clearly a bad guy.
What to watch for
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Violence: Extensive, constant sci-fi action and war violence. Characters (including kids) are held at gunpoint; adult villagers are rounded up by bad guys and separated from their kids; wounded characters bleed; people perish in explosions or at the hands of weapons; Iron Man's armor shoots energy rays, micro-missiles, and, in an early version, flames -- all of which are used as weapons (the flame throwers result in some massive fireballs). Characters in high-tech power armor have impressive, super-powered fistfights.
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Sex: Some making out and tumbling about in bed (partially clothed woman); a young woman wakes up in a bed covered only by a sheet, presumably after sex, and then walks around wearing just a man's shirt; stewardesses dance suggestively (a stripper pole is present but not used); much is made of Tony Stark's reputation as a playboy. Some flirting.
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Language: Mild sexually suggestive language. Fairly infrequent use of words like "damn" and "hell." Generally, tame langage for PG-13.
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Consumerism: Contextual references to Burger King, and characters drive Audi cars (both companies have promotional agreements with the film). Verizon cell phones. A montage includes several mock magazine covers with visible logos: Time, Newsweek, Wired, Rolling Stone, and others.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Alcohol is consumed frequently; one character enjoys a cigar, albeit mostly as a prop.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
I am Iron Man - I wish! by saintandrew
When I was a dopey fifth grader, before I discovered girls, I spent a lot of time in my room reading Marvel Comics. I had my favorites. Johnny Flame - The Human Torch, The Silver Surfer, Iron Man, and The Hulk. I have been impressed with what Marvel has done to stay true to the comic genre. This one had so much good going for it from the start that I expected it to be great. It did not disappoint! Robert Downey Jr. does the best acting of his career as Tony Stark, and Gwyneth Paltrow rocks as Pepper Potts! The updated terrorist connection is seamless making me forget who Iron Man fought against in the original comics. Downey Jr. puts enough charisma into Stark to rival Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow. The tempo is quick and it keeps you on the edge of your seat. Iron Man is an exciting and well scripted revival of the Marvel hero. Now only if they?d get some of these characters together like they did in those special edition comics I loved as a kid. Wouldn't that rock?!
5
Iron Man was awesome by shortcake_freak
I really liked Iron Man. It had something for everyone. Action, romance, great special effects, super cast, and it was funny. I would recommend it to almost anyone.
5
The Best movie by far in 08 by sexyred1982
I was skeptical at first being that I never followed Iron Man comics but after reading reviews I decided to go. It was like a breath of fresh air. This is definitely worth going to see.
4
iron man es espanol by argmiami
Esta pelicula contiene muy buenos efectos especiales, pero al mismo tiempo fue muy extensa, ecenas muy largas que se podrian haber evitado, digamos que al comienzo y al final esta muy bien hecha pero repito mala a la mitad
5
Awesome by ghostbuster1
Iron man was awesome. They did a great job! When you go see this movie, stay after the credits!!!! Its worth the wait!!
5
ROBERT DOWNEY IRON MAN by kel904
WOW..I have always loved Robert Downey Jr., but now, not only is he a great actor, but also a very very sexy superhero. This movie is so exciting and clever..full of edge of your seat action and humor. Really, there is no other superhero movie I can compare this too, it is simply better than the rest. Definately take your kids and have fun.
5
'Iron Man' As Good As Gold. by JTDimino
Whether it's the terse and witty remarks, the incredible visual effects, awe-inspiring (yet remarkably plausible) storyline, or the deep character development, Iron Man strikes it rich on all counts.
In the leading role as Tony Stark, Robert Downey, Jr. is nothing less than amazing; he really nails his character. RDJ isn't the only bright-shining star in this film, however, with wonderful performances on all ends by Jeff Bridges, Terrence Howard, and Gwyneth Paltrow; the character casting and chemistry really makes this movie something special.
Catering to all tastes, the movie overflows with comedy, drama, and action galore; and with a more modern take of the 45 year old storyline, yet still ripe with the core ingredients that has made Iron Man a favorite hero for decades, it will most certainly appeal to both old-time fans and uninformed viewers alike.
All-in-all, this film is a must-see. Marvel's Iron Man reflects both greatness and big plans for the superhero genre.
5
Awsome Movie!!!!!!!! by Just73Gray
For all the people who rate a movie before they have even seen it....STOP IT!!!! Some people come on here to get honest opinions of a movie. People that rate a movie OH NO before they have even seen the movie or people that write MUST GO before they have even seen it......STOP IT!!!! I want an honest opinion from someone who has seen the movie.
And just to let everyone out there know, I just saw the movie and it was amazing. The special effects and action sequences were incredible and the movie had an excellent story line. You don't have to be a fan of comics to enjoy this film. The movie also has some witty and playful humor in it. However, I would recommend that you be a fan of action movies, because if you are then I say this movie is a MUST GO!!
5
This was a great movie! A multiple go see movie! by robynjet2
It was better put together and acted than Batman, Superman, Spiderman or any other action movie you can think of. The audience was cheering and clapping. It was so intense that is what you had to do to show respect to the character. I wasn't a fan of Robert Ickey Jr until last night. Now I can be his Fan CLub President. He played oh so perfectly the part of Tony Spark. I will see this again and again. You should too!
5
Iron Tooshi by miss_tooshi
I have to admit that I am not a fan of Iron Man. I only watched the movie for my boyfriend's sake, but it was enjoyable with some witty humor. I did catch myself tensing up during the movie because of the thrill and suspense. I recommend this movie to everyone! You'll leave the theater enlightened and wanting more! I want a suit of my own now! :]