Despite its shortcomings, Iron Man 2 is one helluva good time. It may not have the most polished delivery in terms of story, but for the most part it attains its many narrative goals. It has fun action set-pieces, an intriguing central dilemma for its main protagonist, and a pair of compelling villains. The original film had a novelty to it that simply can't be replicated, but as far as comic book movie sequels go Iron Man 2 is a cut above most and one gloriously fun set-up for The Avengers. 2012 – the end of the world aside – can't come fast enough.
