A filmmaker can face numerous difficulties when creating their art. Casting the right people, applying the proper tone, writing the perfect script. Make no mistake, it's an incredibly challenging position to be in.
When the art in question is the follow-up to a successful and critically acclaimed film, then it becomes doubly difficult. Now, there's an expectation. People have come to love the characters and want to see them grow, yet don't want to be betrayed by their development. This is largely why numerous filmmakers don't even bother to produce sequels to their work, afraid of the negative reaction from fans.
The ones that go about the task of doing so often get lambasted for their efforts. However, there are few that have been able to capture the spirit of the first film, and have even exceeded their entertainment and storytelling value. The films that fall into this category that come to mind are "The Godfather: Part II", "Empire Strikes Back", and "Toy Story 2."
And while "Iron Man 2" certainly aspires, and makes a decent attempt, to stand next to those classics, it ultimately comes up short in delivering the goods.
What made the first film so endearing was its strong emotional core, which was accentuated by Robert Downey Jr's performance. You felt a connection to him, you could understand his struggle. However, despite a few attempts in the sequel, you never quite get the same reaction. Although Downey plays it beautifully, you don't buy it as well. His arc feels somewhat superficial, contrived. You don't necessarily care what Tony Stark's problems are. You laugh at his jokes, you marvel at his zeal, but you don't see his heart.
In fact, you could say that about the film itself. The wit, charisma are all there, but you never once get the heart. In the first film, the characters felt like three-dimensional beings, actual people. Here, there are occasional flashes of that, before replaced by quips and special effects.
However, all that being said, "Iron Man 2" is still enjoyable fun. There are some truly memorable scenes, including a court hearing scene which features classic Downey dialogue. Sam Rockwell, who portrays Tony Stark wannabe Justin Hammer, is magnificent; you can't take your eyes off of him. Scarlett Johansson also handles her complex action sequences with great ease, and has solid chemistry with the rest of the established cast. One of my favorite elements of the first film, the relationship between Stark and his secretary, Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow), continues quite well, leading into an interesting and satisfying conclusion of their arc.
While hardly destined to be a classic sequel, by emulating the majority of the great elements of the first film, it is able to be a watchable follow-up.
AJP.
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