Favreau Hints at Stark’s Alcoholism for ‘Iron Man 2′

Posted by Dr. Cole Abaius (cole.abaius@filmschoolrejects.com) on May 29, 2009

After being blown away by what comic book films could look and feel like in 2008, I’ve wandered how much further the world could go with them. I guess I’m never satisfied, but I’m always hoping to see the boundaries pushed, and especially with Iron Man, a comic book icon who is as flawed as you’d hope for, I’ve held out hopes that the sequel would be darker and more grueling.

Nothing is for sure as we reach the halfway point on production, but director Jon Favreau (not to be confused with Obama’s head speech writer) made some comments to Empire Magazine that at least hinted toward the alcoholism that comic book fans expect of the super wealthy mogul.

Tony’s expected to be a role model, and I don’t think he’s ready to be one. He’s under a great deal of pressure, and when you’re under pressure, I think you find outlets for that. That’s one of the tensions of the film. It’s one thing to say you’re Iron and another thing to actually become Iron Man.”

I’m hoping that those “outlets” are a glass, some ice cubes, and a handle of Maker’s Mark. Or Blue Label. Either way.

As for the development of Jim Rhodes, played by Terrance Don Cheadle:

Rhodesy is definitely stepping up in this film. Let me put it this way: Tony’s not the only person with technology in this film.

I think it’s safe to say that we’ll be seeing a decent amount of War Machine.

Empire also talked briefly with Mickey Rourke who seemed highly excited about working on the project despite the heft of the suit he had to wear.

Overall, everything seems like Iron Man 2 is on track to deliver the things that fans of the comics want. Let’s see Tony buckle under the pressure of saving the planet. Let’s see War Machine be an unstoppable force. Let’s see Loki break into the Stark Mansion – wait, let’s leave that for the third film. You don’t want mythical beings ruining the realism of your franchise in only the second film.

What do you think?

Read more articles by Dr. Cole Abaius