On CLIPS In May, 2010
IRON MAN 2   

Billionaire inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) must protect his now-known Iron Man suit while battling new enemies in this sequel from director Jon Favreau.

TRIVIA: Who directed 2008's "Iron Man"?

With his Iron Man identity now exposed, billionaire inventor Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.) faces mounting pressure from the government and a few new enemies. "Iron Man 2" is an explosive and entertaining sequel that is almost as good as the first entry in the series. Strong villains, in the form of Mickey Rourke as Ivan Vanko/Whiplash and Sam Rockwell as rival industrialist Justin Hammer, turn a good story into a compelling movie. Director Jon Favreau, who also appears as chauffeur/assistant Happy Hogan, delivers just the right blend of action, humor and drama. There are characters too numerous to mention here, but the terrific cast makes keeping track easy. The charismatic Robert Downey Jr. owns the role of Tony Stark. Gwyneth Paltrow is his match as the pressured and gorgeous personal assistant Pepper Potts, who gets promoted to CEO of Stark Industries when Tony faces death. Scarlett Johansson joins the cast as the aggressive new assistant Natalie Rushman, who has a hidden agenda. Another piece of inspired casting is Don Cheadle, taking over the critical role of Iron Man partner and friend Lt. Col. James Rhodes. Marvel Comics genius Stan Lee gets a cameo and Garry Shandling plays a comical, yet believable, senator. The Avengers are represented by the commanding presence of Samuel L. Jackson as the head of S.H.I.E.L.D. Nick Fury. Don't worry, everything fits logically together. Astounding special effects and John Debney's memorable score add to this immersive experience. Stick around after the end credits for a surprise. "Iron Man 2" rocks!, with no signs of rust in the series' armor.