After Iron Man was released in 2008, I was super impressed with the look and feel of the suits heads up display when Tony was wearing the armor. It was even nominated for an Oscar in the category of Best Achievement in Visual Effects although it did not win. I kept thinking through the film (and its sequel in 2010) now this production technique has got it right.
That same level of 'completely nailed it' is exactly how the animated television series (herein called A:EMH) feels. What I find really intriguing is that A:EMH was released before Joss Whedon's smash hit feature film for the Avengers and even though it does not follow the same chronology or universe (which is fine, I like that they each stand alone) there are very similar stylistic elements shared between the two (the most obvious being the previously mentioned HUD for Tony when in the armor, but the touches are numerous).
A:EMH currently has two seasons and they are both fantastic. The show excels at bringing the entire cast to life without dwelling for too long on one specific character (a problem with the Ultimate Avenger's films released in 2006). Those films are okay, but pale in comparison to this new serial. In A:EMH you get to see a ton of classic characters through both seasons and see some really interesting stuff not attempted in prior incarnations.
I'm particularly fond of the appearances by Silver Surfer, Spider-Man, Wolverine, The Fantastic Four (and Doctor Doom along with, of course) and Beta Ray Bill. There are also some great villain appearances but I won't spoil those for you.
If any two of the following are true for you:
* I like high quality animation
* I like super-hero themes
* I like Iron Man
* I'm secretly a super villain and have plans to rule the world
... then you should definitely check this show out. Both seasons are available through NetFlix (even the paltry Canadian one, which is what I use). You won't have a single Ant-Man sized iota of regret.
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