Iron Man 3

If you want science fiction that respects its own premise, Iron Man 3 is available in Australia on Disney Plus, and in the US on Disney Plus right now. It knows exactly what kind of film it is from the opening scene, and never loses that thread. 23,556 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Robert Downey Jr. Leads a cast that never lets the concept overwhelm the characters. Put it on tonight on Disney Plus and see for yourself.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, Iron Man 3 is worth clearing space for. Iron Man 3 uses its genre premise as cover for asking bigger questions. When Tony Stark's world is torn apart by a formidable terrorist called the Mandarin, he starts an odyssey of rebuilding and retribution. The human element stays intact thanks to Robert Downey Jr. And Gwyneth Paltrow, who anchor every scene. It hit screens in 2013. Iron Man 3 resists the temptation to explain everything, trusting the audience to sit with ambiguity. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

Viewers burned by ambitious sci-fi that could not sustain its premise should give Iron Man 3 a chance. It does not lean on comparisons to make its case. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single evening. Robert Downey Jr. Grounds the bigger ideas in something human. Once you are in, you will want to talk about it.