Reel News: Week of April 29 — Iron Man 3, Silver Linings Playbook

Upcoming Theatrical Releases

Iron Man 3
Director: Shane Black
PG-13; 129 mins.
Trailer

Marvel’s “Iron Man 3” pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him: does the man make the suit or does the suit make the man? (Synopsis by Disney)

A sloppy third edition of the franchise. Robert Downey Jr. largely holds this together with his charm alone. Enjoyable enough, even when the action sequences resemble lost “Halo” footage and the cast of supporting characters is stretched to its limit.

Upcoming DVD Releases

Silver Linings Playbook
Director: David O. Russell
R; 122 mins.
Trailer

Life doesn’t always go according to plan. Pat Solatano (Bradley Cooper) has lost everything — his house, his job, and his wife. He now finds himself living back with his mother (Jacki Weaver) and father (Robert DeNiro) after spending eight months is a state institution on a plea bargain. Pat is determined to rebuild his life, remain positive and reunite with his wife, despite the challenging circumstances of their separation. All Pat’s parents want is for him to get back on his feet-and to share their family’s obsession with the Philadelphia Eagles football team. When Pat meets Tiffany (Jennifer Lawrence), a mysterious girl with problems of her own, things get complicated. Tiffany offers to help Pat reconnect with his wife, but only if he’ll do something very important for her in return. As their deal plays out, an unexpected bond begins to form between them, and silver linings appear in both of their lives. (Synopsis by Weinstein)

The often-maligned romantic comedy genre gets a much-needed shot in the arm which offers emotional impact without relying on whimsical musical montages set on the beach. If you missed it last year, watch it now.