Downey gives "Iron Man" its strength

Like the song goes, he is Iron Man.

You may have never thought of Robert Downey Jr. as a superhero — and I don't want to hear why you think Michael Keaton was an inspired choice for Tim Burton's weak "Batman." But even though the inaugural Marvel Studios self-financed blockbuster doesn't quite live up to the massive expectations craftily nurtured over the past year, Downey's energy, humor and charisma make it fun.

Also, the Iron Man armor is righteously cool ... when it's finally in action. It takes nearly an hour and a half before Tony Stark is fully suited up as the familiar red-and-gold Iron Man. Maybe Stark could invent an origin movie that fires on all cylinders.

Although director Jon Favreau may not have been an intuitive choice (uh, "Elf"?), he allows "Swingers"-style banter between Stark and both pal Rhodey (Terrence Howard) and assistant/crush Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) that deftly lightens the mood. And Favreau seems to know and respect the comics (and includes nods that fans will cheer), even if his pacing can be clunky.

From his blue-white glowing eyes to the repulsor rays that shoot out of his palms, you'll want to see more of Iron Man immediately. There are three thrilling action sequences with seamless special effects and one not-so-thrilling. That's not enough, and Iron Man doesn't have a truly satisfying battle with a worthy foe. There are better reasons to wish for a sequel, but I'll take one.

— By Mark Rahner, Seattle Times staff reporter