Sequels are inevitably compared to their originals and more often than not they don't measure up.  Because of the cast, this one could have been an exception... Downey is still a marvel to watch and Paltrow may be even better in this version. Cheadle, who replaces Terrance Howard, is also fine.  Rourke and Rockwell as villains and Jackson and Johansson as intriguing spy-types are all fascinating; and Shandling as the chairman of a Senate investigating committee is hilarious.  But the screenplay is very much by-the-numbers, and it just doesn't add up.  The captivating characters and stimulating situations that distinguished the original Iron Man have given way to long and loud action sequences.

But if it's action you want, you've got it!  This film's scenes are very well done and are accompanied by lots of heavy metal music (what else?). The cinematography is also noticeably sharp with lots of excellent aerial views. Great location work in and around California, and in Monaco during the principality's Grand Prix, also adds to the film's visual vitality.

I waited in a long line to see this movie, but it was worth the wait because of the enthusiastic audience that surrounded me. I suggest you come early to get a good seat... and stay late through the end credits for a big hint at what may be coming next from the Iron Man franchise.