Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
Since Marvel Comics and CGI tied the knot in the late 1990s, superheroes have taken over the big screen in a gigantic way, writes MAI AL KHATIB.
Over the years Marvel fans were awestruck as their favourite superheroes came to life. The Hulk, Silver Surfer, Spiderman, Fantastic Four and not to mention the constantly renewed Batman and Superman flicks have won over many comic book fans and general movie buffs alike.
But for some reason, Iron Man stands out from the rest - and I'm not the only one who thinks it's a hit. Reuters stated that the comic book adventure Iron Man proved its mettle in the US and topped expectations and The Associated Press reported that the new movie was pure gold at the box office and had scored overseas with $96.7 million in 57 countries putting its early worldwide total at $201 million.
So what does Iron Man have to offer that's different? A flawed character that becomes honourable is the answer. Add to that some of the best features of Fantastic Four, Batman Begins and Transformers, and you have one of the more satisfying comic-books-turned-blockbuster that we've seen for a while.
Billionaire and genius Tony Stark is a weapons inventor who gets captured by 'bad guys' in Afghanistan. Forced to work for them, he forms an escape plan that ends up getting him superhero status.
The long build-up explaining how he becomes Iron Man (watching him modify the suit and attempt to fly) is arguably one of the best parts of the film. The second half of the movie is pure action, but with a well-delivered script and sufficient plot-twists to keep the viewer engaged.
The out-of-reach love-interest materializes as Gwyneth Paltrow (who was quite witty and stunning) making her character enjoyable to watch. Jeff Bridges and Terrence Howard played excellent supporting roles.
Ingenious special effects, heavy metal and humour mixed with action are some of the other reasons why Iron Man kicked some major rear-end.
On a personal note, my big disappointment was that I didn't get to hear one of the most famous heavy metal riffs of all time which was featured in the trailer. I couldn't wait to see Iron Man flying through the skies to the sound of Black Sabbath's rock anthem.
Otherwise, I give Iron Man two thumbs up and would recommend this movie to anyone who is seeking a hero to idolise. This is a film that tries to please everyone and largely succeeds. It's a two-hour thrill-ride that delivers a new action-hero.
