Iron Man

Iron Man is the film that started it all. Robert Downey Jr.'s charismatic performance as Tony Stark redefined the superhero archetype, moving away from the stoic hero to someone flawed, arrogant, and ultimately heroic. The film's grounded approach to technology and its sharp, witty script made it an instant classic. It remains the gold standard for origin stories, balancing character development with high-tech spectacle.

Even years later, it holds up as a tight, well-paced, and incredibly entertaining film that set the foundation for the entire MCU.