The movie that ignited the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), directed by the legendary Jon Favreau — Iron Man. Not only did this capture the imagination of a generation of superhero fanatics, but it also commenced the monopoly that this genre would have on movie theatres for a substantial period of time.

Tony Stark’s character development throughout the MCU has been nothing short of phenomenal. However, the beginning of his journey was not always smooth sailing. An entitled, self-centred, arrogant playboy with an endless stream of cash to stroke his ego — to put it polietly.

When we discuss an actor and a fictional character being the perfect match, this is it. Robert Downey Jr. and Tony Stark are a match made in heaven. This movie was just the beginning of the billionaire’s redemption arc, but also Downey Jr’s.

Plot

This movie follows a structure that was very relatable at the time, with the war raging on in Afghanistan and Iraq. Iron Man chose to lean into this scenario and displayed how a human who possesses riches beyond the working class’s wildest imagination.

Afghan terrorists would take advantage of Stark’s visit to their native land and kidnap him, not only to take advantage of his wealth, but to inherit his genius mind with the intention of creating a weapon of mass destruction to turn the tide in a never-ending war — the Jericho Missile.

Even for the greatest mind of a generation, an escape from his captor seemed implausible, not for Tony Stark. In the dingy cave where he was being held hostage, the Stark Industries CEO deceived kidnappers (The Ten Rings) by faking the construction of said missile, while he began to design and configure a powerful suit of armour that would allow him to blast his way to freedom.

Once escaped, we get our first meeting with a certain James Rhodes. This is the one and only title that Terrence Howard would be granted the role of ‘War Machine’ before he is replaced further down the line. Despite losing the role to Don Cheadle, Howard fantastically depicts Captain Rhodey, although in a different light than the future face of the character.

Next, the emotional development of Tony Stark slowly starts to commence as the guilt begins to seep into his mind due to the danger that his weapons can pose when falling into enemies’ laps. Stark immediately cancels the production of these missiles, much to the distaste of the company manager, Obadiah Stane (Jeff Bridges), who berates him for a decision that could derail the company.

Not only do we see a conscience manifest itself, but Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) — Tony Stark’s love interest — melts the iron heart (no pun intended) of a man who has taken it upon himself to live his single life to the fullest of his abilities.

Even though the production of missiles was halted, Stark proceeded to construct a new version of the suit that would also contain an essential component — a powerful arc reactor.

His first ride out in his powerful, upgraded armour is back to the land of Afghanistan, from which he recently escaped to save citizens who are in danger from the terrorist organization who originally took him captive.

During all of this action, Stane acquires the pieces to the prototype set of armour as he looks to create one for himself and establish himself as the first true enemy of Iron Man. Nevertheless, without the genius of Stark and the arc reactor, the suit cannot be complete and after Stane’s scientists reveal this fact, the villain viciously attacks the billionaire at his home, leaving him to die.

Eventually, Stark lures Stane to the top of the Stark Industries building, and the fate of the scoundrel is sealed. Pepper Potts is then instructed to overload the arc reactor, forcing Stane to fall to his much-deserved death.

In the conclusion of the movie, Tony Stark reveals to the world that he is, in fact, Iron Man, and he is no longer going to lead a selfish way of life, but will vow to protect the world from all forms of evil — little did he know what lay ahead.

During the end-credits, in true Marvel style, we gain a first glimpse of Samuel L. Jackson revealing himself as the mysterious Nick Fury, who announces that he is not the only superhero on this planet, leading to the discussion of ‘The Avengers’.

Review: 8.5-10

If a company is looking to start a multi-billion-dollar franchise, this is exactly the way to do it. As previously mentioned, the casting in this movie is nothing short of sensational. Robert Downey Jr’s performance is as close to perfect as a studio can demand.

His personality and execution of his dialogue are exceptional. Not only does his humour, sarcasm and wit shine through when it is needed most, but his display of emotional range is exactly what Tony Stark requires.

Downey Jr’s chemistry with Paltrow is there for all to see. A love-hate relationship in which the former shines through is apparent. His scenes with the actress feel intense. They feel real. A connection that leaves viewers wondering when this couple will become an item, but most importantly, actually wanting it to happen.

Given that this movie was released in 2008, the storyline worked perfectly with the era in which it was created. It displayed the evil side of a company that has unfathomable wealth, and that morals in life are hard to come by.

It also exhibits that life-experience and realisation can manifest a change in a human’s nature. Tony Stark’s journey throughout this movie, the highs and the lows, does an excellent job of creating the resilience that is needed for a future leader of ‘The Avengers’.

Director Jon Favreau’s role in this title is essential. His attention to detail provides an opportunity to highlight key moments in Stark’s character development. Lighting is important. Iron Man’s darkest moments are accompanied by eerie surroundings, supplemented by an astute selection of tense audio to create a sense of nervousness.

Of course, what cannot be forgotten is the movie’s use of essential soundtracks that epitomise everything that Marvel’s high-octane superhero represents. The audio in question? AC/DC. Throughout his redemptive moments, the rock and roll music prepares the audience for an enthralling action scene.

One thing that cannot be denied is that Iron Man was in the elite bracket of movies. Marvel would become a mammoth of a franchise after this piece of art kicked off phase one of ‘The Infinity Saga’.