Parental Rating:

Our Score:

Does Robert Downey Jr. bring back the bad? Does Scarlett Johansson show off the goods? Does Mickey Rourke whip it good?

All of these questions will be answered if you go check out Iron Man 2 that hits theaters in the US today.

I caught the show at midnight and was squeeing with excitement along with all of the other 12-16 year olds in attendance. Yes, my group was made up of the only old farts in the entire place. However, it was amusing to hear a bunch of pubescent boys squeal with excitement (yes, I said squeal) as they caught their first glimpse of a half-naked woman courtesy of Scarlett Johansson.

The film had lots of cool action scenes, sexy new characters and stunning visual effects that will make you cream your jeans. However, it lacked in any real story and actual character building.

Mickey Rourke was simply astounding. However, he wasn't given the chance to really shine in his role. His voice was pure raspy sex while he used his whips to tear the world apart in a S&M fueled rage of energy. Even with his way-too-short scenes, he still stole the show.

Don Cheadle was a good replacement for Stark's best friend, Rhodey (Rhodes). I wasn't as offended by this actor change as others. However, his character didn't have much to it. The only thing running through my mind while watching he and Stark during their little bitch-fest was what a PMS Kitty vs. DirtyDiva fight would be like if we had the cool suits those two had. I'm not sure that much of the Seattle area would remain in-tact.

Sam Rockwell just pissed me off. His character, Justin Hammer, was SO obnoxious, I just wanted to pack up and leave every time his stupid face came into view. I appreciate that they tried to make his inadequecies amusing but for me, it was just annoying. I would be happy if that character never surfaced again.

Stark is still his wonderful, narcissistic self looking for toys to play with - namely Scarlett Johansson while Mommy Pepper keeps him in line. Samuel L. Jackson's Nick Fury takes the daddy role in trying to keep Tony from completely destroying himself. Johansson has one very cool fight scene but there's not much else for us to appreciate about the character - well - those of us not interested in watching her walk around with a scowl and a tight skirt, that is.

All in all, for a sequel, it was fine but I really felt like there was too much fluff. It was also very predictable. The only real surprise existed in Tony's suit and was exposed during a rather nifty fight scene. The entire audience erupted in cheers as it made its appearance.

Will you enjoy it? If you go into it expecting nothing, yes. If you're hoping for a sequel similar to the recent Batman offerings, you'll be disappointed.

As always - if you do decide to go, stay until after the ending credits. You know how it goes!