You definitely have a point, this movie's story was completely structured around Stark. His fear, his mistake, Ultron and the Twins hating Stark more so than the Avengers, etc. Still, coming out of the movie it doesn't feel like Stark took over like in TA. I believe because on the surface level he was less prominent as compared to TA.
It actually feels like a reversal between TA and AoU. In TA, the plot doesn't really have much to do with Stark. Loki's plan and the assembly of the team were very balanced, and there wasn't any critical Stark-plot point besides the self-sacrifice play at the end. No Stark-driven plot. However, he's the spirit of the movie with his great character moments and lines.
In AoU, the story is pretty much driven by Stark. His actions are what push the story forward. But this time, on the surface level he's not as much of a scene-stealer. Everyone else is more in the spotlight this time, and Stark even takes a backseat during the finale, which also wasn't resolved solely due to him like in TA. So that's what I meant when I said he was the backbone of the movie without taking over it.
I've been waiting for your full review by the way, I can't wait to read your expanded thoughts on the movie.
That's understandable, but it comes off somewhat in poor taste to me. I know that probably sounds a bit harsh, but I can't imagine just how Tony-centric it would feel if the script was under a different writer. The fact it's not as noticeable is only a compliment to Whedon's exceptional ability to handle ensemble casts. It all seems well and good if we're just talking dialogue and action scenes, but you can't cover it up as much when it comes to analyzing the thematic parts.
Just to be clear though, I don't necessarily mind a story driven by one particular character. If anything you kinda need that to an extent with guys like Clint and Banner. But when the character driving your story isn't just a huge solo success but your *biggest* solo success, it just comes off as "was it really necessary?"
I'm also writing my review now as we speak.
