The foe is Mickey Rourke’s Ivan Vanko, introduced properly in a staggering action sequence set at Historic Grand Prix of Monaco. Director Jon Favreau stages this superbly, and Iron Man 2 manages to pack plenty into its opening 40 minutes as a result.

The foot does go off the gas, though, in the middle part of the film, when Iron Man 2 does get bogged down by a few too many characters and plot points. But there’s regularly something to keep the attention up, before all bets are off for the entertaining finale.

Iron Man 2 may not be a perfect sequel, but it’s certainly a good one. And it’s a thorough and rigorous home cinema workout, too. Boasting spectacular visuals and a thunderous surround sound mix, the Blu-ray edition of the film is a thrilling ride, and the best way to enjoy an already-worthwhile movie. --Jon Foster