Last week Iron Man 3 opened in theaters. As a “birthday” present to myself, I wanted to attend the midnight IMAX showing of the film. I asked a few friends if they were up to the misadventure, but sadly all said they needed their sleep due to work obligations or just didn’t want to be bothered. Undeterred, I excitedly looked forward to experience another chapter of the Marvel vision of Tony Stark. I made sure to take a panda nap during the late afternoon, so I would be well rested and ready for my little escapade.

Arriving at the theater early, I was informed by the gentleman who took my ticket that I was to stand at the designated spot further down the way, where those who were here for the midnight showing where to wait in line. I was in fact the very first in line! Thankfully, I brought my iPhone with me and happily texted several friends who were well cozy and snug in their bed as to the events thus far. Several of the theater workers walked past me and smiled as they meticulously swept the carpet for any lose popcorn kernels or any other such items that had found there way upon the floor. I mentioned to one how nice it was to see such a clean and well looked after theater, that I for one appreciated their efforts, which might otherwise seem somewhat insignificant or a drudgery to do. The young worker beamed by the fact that I had noticed and said “thank you”.

After around twenty minutes or so had passed, several others had joined me in line. There was some uncertainly as to wait at the designated spot as I was told, or to hang out in front of the specific theater section, being that all seats were preordained. Eventually, one of the  managers came over and asked everyone to kindly take a spot in line, my hunch had paid off it seemed, for now there was somewhat a scramble to get in line.

Striking up a conversation with the band of people standing by me, we happily discussed a wide range of topics dealing with super heroes, film, comics, actors and directors, as well as sharing our enthusiasm for Iron Man 3!

Eventually, the time had come and the manager alerted with a big smile that it was time to let us within the theater. I shook hands with my new found friends saying how nice it was to meet everyone and gave them Matt and Pat Show cards and told them, “Don’t Listen!”.

I was greeted by an user who kindly asked if I needed any assistance finding my seat, which I responded by saying that I think I was good and asked how he was tonight. He replied he was doing really well, excited that Iron Man was finally opening!

As I was moving down the isle to take my seat, which was perfectly situated in the center of the screen, I overheard a girl some rows up ask her friend what song was playing via the theater large speakers. I chimed in by saying, “The track from Inception”. She called down a “thank you” and I took my seat.

The movie opens with Tony Stark doing a voice over, relating how the current situation he find himself within initially came to play. It is an interesting way to open the film, for the circumstances which transpire throughout film take place by way of the aftermath of the Avengers, though there are aspects of Tony’s past which are to haunt him in the present, which indeed shape events upon a global scale.

I thought momentarily how many within the audience picked up that subtle nuance of the voice over, for after the end credits it is finally revealed who Tony Stark is speaking with. I won’t give anyway any spoiler as to who it was, but when I saw individual, I immediately yelled out a cheer and raised my fist in a triumphant pump shake!

I have read from different internet sites various audience comments concerning the film. It seems there is no middle ground in terms of the reaction that viewers are left with. Either they love it, or they hate it. I for one very much enjoyed the film! I believe the reason why some walk out disappointed in the film is that it is not “Avengers”, which is completely unfair and an unrealistic expectation to have going in to watch Iron Man 3.

This is a film that strips away all elements of support and help that were the case within Avengers and here it is all about Tony Stark not only coping with the ramifications of the events from Avengers, but also of the reality that he is faced in terms of his relationship with Pepper and how to co exist if you will with the many “suits” of his creation. How does Tony Stark comes to terms with who he is and with those he loves in relationship with being Iron Man.

Shane Black, the writer and director of the film, who is known for his wit and daft exchanged of dialogue does not disappoint! The verbal exchanges between characters throughout the film added a level of sophistication by way of dialogue which heightened what was taking on screen. Yes, there were very cool visual effects and movie magic galore, yet the heart of the story is about a man who has had these incredible life changing events and how he deals and copes with the ramifications of it all.

It is a super hero movie with a very human element to it. The actors and actress all were superb. Robert Downey Jr. IS Tony Stark. I certainly hope that he reprises his role in future Iron Man films, for he lends a believability to the character that other actors I do not think would be able to bring. He has had a past of excesses and debauchery, while having a genuine gift of talent. Similarity, he has been reduced to nothing, while having the gumption to come through to the other side so to speak, much like Tony Stark has had to. I want to see more of this character and more of Robert Downey Jr. portraying him.

Don Cheadle was finally Rhodes for me this film. The interplay that he has with Tony feels like the old friend that he is. It wasn’t until the very end of Iron Man 2 that I had a glimpse of that relationship, so to see the organic growth of it over the course of this film was most welcome.

Guy Pearce is always spot on in whatever he is in. I remember watching LA Confidential and thinking to myself this guy is good! I won’t give any an elements of his character per se, other than to say he was well cast!

Rebecca Hall is beautiful! I am in love! Nuff Said!

Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan rocked! He was a lot of fun to watch on screen!

Gwyneth Paltrow played Pepper to a T. She has this character down pat and really helps to make believable the interplay between her character and Robert Downey Jr. I liked the aspects that were brought in to add some new elements to her character and to the relationship that she has with Tony.

Finally, Sir Ben Kingsley! WoW! This film is a prime example as to why he is such an extraordinary actor, for he very much steals the movie whenever he is on screen. His portrayal of The Mandarin is beyond awesome! He manages to grip and hold ones attention by way of his subtle mannerisms and voice inflections which he infuses into his character. Again, without giving away any spoilers, there is an added element to his character which comes out of left field and what a field it is! Suffice to say, he was epic!

Bottom line, go see this film. It has all of the elements that are important to me, a good story, a strong script, well executed acting, with elements of humor, action and dare I say depth of character. Lastly, a well crafted film by way of solid direction.

Go in with an open mind, so as to not unduly influenced by way of the Avengers film and I contend that you will very much enjoy Iron Man 3!

As a side note, I was fortunate enough to obtain one of the limited editions IMAX posters as shown below for seeing it opening night. What a cool birthday present indeed!