Iron Man (1931 film)

Iron Man is a 1931 American pre-Code sports drama film directed by Tod Browning, starring Lew Ayres and Robert Armstrong. The film is based on the 1930 novel of the same name by W.R. Burnett. It tells the story of a humble and talented coal miner, Mason "Marnie" Stone, who rises to fame and fortune as a boxer.

Marnie, encouraged by his opportunistic manager, George Regan (Armstrong), wins a series of bouts and quickly becomes a popular and successful fighter, earning the nickname "Iron Man" for his resilience and ability to withstand punishment in the ring. The film explores the negative effects of fame and fortune on Marnie's relationships, particularly his marriage to Rose (Jean Harlow), who becomes increasingly dissatisfied and estranged from him as he becomes more consumed by his career and the accompanying lifestyle.

As Marnie's success grows, so does his arrogance and naiveté. He becomes increasingly reliant on Regan, who exploits him for his own gain. Rose eventually leaves Marnie, unable to cope with his fame and the influence of Regan. A key plot point revolves around a rigged fight orchestrated by Regan, which exposes Marnie to public ridicule and damages his reputation.

The film depicts Marnie's struggle to reconcile his personal life with his boxing career and to navigate the corrupt world surrounding him. It culminates in Marnie attempting to regain his integrity and reclaim his relationship with Rose. Ultimately, Iron Man offers a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of fame, fortune, and the corrupting influence of those who seek to exploit others.