By Morgan Hall

Co-Editor in Chief

Personally I give “Iron Man 3” four F’s and an A. It’s Fantastic, Fabulous, Funny and Frickin’ Awesome and you would truly be missing out if you don’t see it May 3.

This film is the story about how Tony Stark’s life got flipped, turned upside down, and I’d like to take a minute, so just sit right there.

I’ll tell you how he became the prince of a town called Bel-air…. oops that’s “The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air” lyrics. Wrong story but it is pretty similar.

In all seriousness, I can certainly say that this film is the best movie of the Marvel franchise by far and completely obliterates “The Avengers.” In its two hours, it has everything that a great movie should have, and more.

This film focuses on how Stark’s personal life is in disarray after the events in New York depicted in “The Avengers.” Tony’s love life with the fiery Pepper Potts is also in jeopardy because his attention is focused on only tinkering with his Iron Man suits. On top of that, the terrorist Mandarin and his minions further complicate Tony’s life by harming those he loves and threatening the United States and its interests.

Going into the film, I was worried that the weeks of extensive film trailers gave the entire flick away. But do not be fooled. What you see in the trailers is certainly not what you get. Of course the film still has its trademark sarcastic undertone and complex high-tech gadgets as seen in both “Iron Man 1″ and “Iron Man 2,” but it goes so much deeper with the storyline of the characters.   

This film can best be described as an emotional roller coaster … that also happens to be in the dark. It has unseen twists, blind turns, and will completely throw the viewer for an unexpected loop several times. It also has explosions, intense fight scenes, amazing suits of armor and a great cast.

“Iron Man” veterans Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle all reprise their roles for this third, and possibly final, installment that includes the new faces of Rebecca Hall and Guy Pearce. Also a newcomer to this flick is the talented Ben Kingsley — as the terrorist Mandarin —- who completely steals the show and adds an element of depth to the story.   

The only negative about this film, and it isn’t even the film itself, is that the 3D version made some scenes look a little dark. I say save your money and see it with out the additional dimension. Although, if you want to spend the extra $6 per ticket, you will receive a stylish pair of either Iron Man- or Iron Patriot-shaped 3D glasses.  

If you have ever seen a Marvel flick, you should know to stay through all of the credits for extended clips, and this film’s last three-minute bonus clip is worth the wait. Although it doesn’t hint at a possible fourth “Iron Man” film, it does link to a fellow Avengers character.

Go see this film. In fact, go see it multiple times. I give “Iron Man 3” six out of five paw prints.