10 Years Ago: IRON MAN

Most people I know of would do their MCU (Marvel Cinematic Universe) marathon to ensure they are up to date before watching the next installment, mostly when the next installment is the new Avengers movie of that year, like they prepare themselves for the strongly esoteric Infinity War, one which requires being prepared to by watching more than half of the MCU installments beforehand.

Anyway, I like to marathon something when celebrating a significant date, like today's anniversary of the first Iron Man movie. I watched different movies to come in with possibly updated perception of each movie.


The first Iron Man stands to date as an excellent movie, and one of the highlights of the world they started with, there is not much to be said about it that hasn't been said multiple times through the years. All I will say is that it is an essential movie for any fan of superhero films to watch, even if they are reached their limit watching movies in this series.

The direct sequel; Iron Man 2, is an enjoyable movie that is mostly easy to skip, you will not feel like you need it for something important for future movies reference. The introduction of Black Widow feels superfluous in this one, seeing her in 2012's the Avengers gives you enough of an introduction for the character within this world. One thing to have use in watching it is that the Netflix show; Luke Cage reminds us that Hammer Industries exists in this world.

Thor is the next movie I watched, it is a valued entry in understanding Thor and his relationship to Earth, and an introduction to Loki and why he is a threat the Avengers need to face. It's a good movie with some really beautiful shots and great soundtrack work.


How would I rank the MCU movies so far after this view?

1. Iron Man 2: Admittedly, enjoyed it more than the first movie this go around. Characters feel better than I remember.
2. Iron Man.
3. Thor.

I will try to come tomorrow after sitting through other movies, with some short talks about them

TENTH SPECTACULAR ANNIVERSARY

The title is meant to address the character, but people tend to associate the title adjective to the quality of the story, and in the case of this show who ever does it is not wrong.

I'm Actually seven days late in celebrating this special anniversary, I had to watch this show one arc per day to better absorb and embrace the quality entertainment provided to us. This is how I break it down:

Day 1: Episodes 1-3 (collected as a Direct to Video in Attack of the Lizard):

Survival of the Fittest, Interactions, and Natural Selection.

I guess you can call it one arc for the style they built up Curt Connors transformation to the Lizard. Beside that, it feels like three separate episodes standing on their own.

Last minute of episode 3 is one of the most defining character moments to be shown on screen, stands out very well in showing why we care for the character. We see him in a moment of vulnerability and spiritual defeat, but he sees why he should continue, what he is capable of doing, what he successfully achieved as a man who owes it to be the way he is.

A glorious and triumphant minute.

Day 2: Episodes 4-6:

Market Forces, Competition, and The Invisible Hand

This collection also feels like three separate episodes standing on their own, but there is a bigger touch of an arching story-line going on with the mystery of the Big Man.

Day 3: Episodes 7-9 (Now this is the first true arc):

Catalysts, Reaction, and The Uncertainty Principle

The Green Goblin wreaks havoc and does his work to take over the Big Man's place. Proven to be intimidating, funny, and more than competent to take over even with Spider-Man standing in his way.

Day 4: Episodes 10-13:

Persona, Group Therapy, Intervention, and Nature vs Nurture

The Venom arc. I'm not one of those who think highly of Venom as a character in general, this show successfully made sure to keep a good mark with Venom.

There are some silly moments, but I'm glad they feel tasteful and fitting for the show, at least that is the way I feel about it personally.

Day 5: Episodes 14-17:

Blueprints, Destructive Testing, Reinforcements, and Shear Strength

The Master planner arc, a significantly strong start for the season. One of the webheads most fatal nemeses cuts loose on what he wants to do, and almost succeeds have it not been for a great deal of help from the Spectacular Spider-Man, and the firm resilience of Captain George Stacy who managed to walk tall after a time of vulnerability.

Day 6: Episodes 18-20:

First Steps, Growing Pains, and Identity Crisis

Venom returns, and beautiful chaos ensues.

Day 7: Episodes 21-23:

Accomplices, Probable Cause, and Gangland

Two episodes in a row where Spider-Man is more of an easy target than a spectacular acrobatic brawler, it feels low to see him that after being more powerful against a foe much stronger than he is in Venom. Good thing is that Gangland sees him return to form and defeats three foes in one battle.

Day 8: Episodes 24-26:

Subtext, Opening Night, and Final Curtain

The Green Goblin returns with vengeance, and he's as great as he's been in the first season. It's lovely to see him as a valid threat while Spider-Man is not toned down as a capable fighter.

It's a show that mostly sustained a high quality production even at its low points, the animation is consistently fluid, character volumes are consistent, nothing hectic or ugly looking, a good eye relaxing color palette, consistent continuity, good care for characterization and voice acting.

The show that unfortunately ended too soon, deserves the love it got.