Shane Black and Robert Downey, Jr. first collaborated in the 2005 film “Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang.” In it, you saw RDJ play a character that was very brash and cocky with his mannerisms, but was still able to get out of a sticky situation. Some say that him playing that particular character is what landed him the leading role of Tony Stark in the first Iron Man film. Fast forward to 2013 and RDJ once again teams up with Black for the Marvel Studios blockbuster “Iron Man 3.”

In this film, it’s clear from the very beginning that Stark is still reeling from the events that took place in “The Avengers.” He’s having zapping anxiety attacks, he’s constantly been building more Iron suits and, possibly worse of all, he’s terrified for the life of the woman he loves Pepper Potts (Gwyenth Paltrow).

All three of those traits go on overdrive thanks to the manic attacks of The Mandarin (Ben Kingsley), as well as the unnerving persona of businessman and scientist Aldrich Killian (Guy Pierce).

The acting level in the film is that of what you’d expect from a Marvel Studios film, and that is, very much, a compliment. Not a single main character was too high above the other. They all had a fair balance that pushed the story further that it would have been, and Marvel succeeded in pulling it off. The story is also a dark turn on the Iron Man persona, letting the audience see a much sorrowed side of Tony Stark that we haven’t really witnessed much in the other two Iron Man films.

However, there is one thing that will either make or break this film for any audience member. Without spoiling anything in this film, there is a huge plot twist for “Iron Man 3,” and there is a huge mixed bag of opinions on the matter from all types of fans on the Internet.

Personally, while I was thrown off by the twist for a good 10 seconds, I gave it a chance and was satisfied. Even though I disagree with many of the complaints, I can’t blame those who made them. In short, when The Mandarin says the line, “You don’t know who I am. You’ll never see me coming,” he means it.

Overall, most casual and hardcore Marvel fans will fall in love with this film. There is tons of action, a good dose of drama and an after-credits scene that only those with the right temperament will appreciate. “Iron Man 3” is not the perfect superhero movie, but it’s a thrill ride that you won’t want to miss.

B

Pros: Plenty of action, new view on main characters
Cons: Misleading trailers, more drama than action