The Marvel Masterworks continue David Michelinie and Bob Layton’s timeless IRON MAN run! Tony Stark recovers from his problems with the bottle by throwing himself into globetrotting business (and pleasure), but his enemies aren’t giving him an edge: The All-Devourer awaits in Hong Kong, the Titanium Man is ready to tango in Times Square and Force makes his brutal debut in the Bahamas! But sometimes it’s your friends you need to worry about the most: Can Stark beat back a hostile takeover of his company by Nick Fury and S.H.I.E.L.D.? With rich characterizations, a vibrant supporting cast and a steady stream of new armor designs, Michelinie and Layton prove they’re just getting started! Collecting IRON MAN (1968) #129-144
Overall, quite enjoyable. No classic storylines and a couple of fairly average issues, but mostly good storytelling, great art, and solid superheroing.
I'm not a fan of the Seventies artwork but oh, how I love the fashions. (Although I do question the Carribbean look of speedos and tube socks.) Steve Martin and Rodney Dangerfield make cameos (?) while Iron Man roller skates his way through several adventures. Seriously, skates need to come back in style. Tony is given a formidable girlfriend in Bethany Cabe but she isn't given enough chance to kick ass.
Michelinie, Layton & Romita Jr. are all still taking the reigns of the book, but at first it does feel like they take a bit of time to develop stuff past Demon in a Bottle.
There’s no major stories here like that precious volume, but it is enjoyable enough and Michelinie and Layton play around with Tony's supporting cast really well. That said, it lacks the oomph that the previous volume had.
Good color artwork. A thick compendium of iron man exploits. Tony stark fights alcoholism. Iron man fights the hulk. Justin hammer makes problems. Madame masque attacks. Sunturian shows us the future is energy.