Robert Downey Jr. and filmmaker Shane Black are officially reuniting for a brand-new movie for Amazon Studios. The two last worked together when they teamed up forIron Man 3back in 2013.
The famousIron Manis arguably the role Downey Jr. is associated the most with. Downey Jr.’s fanbase was devastated whenTony Stark fell to his deathinAvengers: Endgame. Downey Jr. is mostly associated with being the hero, the “good guy," the chivalrous knight, the protector. However, he can also play the exact opposite type of role at the drop of a hat.
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The novel has actually already been adapted to film twice before - 1967’sPoint Blankstarring Lee Marvin and 1999’sPaybackstarring Mel Gibson. The most recent actor to step into the role was Jason Statham in the 2013 film,Parker. Given that so many actors have been able to tackle this role and knowingthis is Downey Jr.’s re-introductionin a lot of ways back to the big screen, it will be fascinating to see what he does with this opportunity. Of course, knowing that Black and Downey Jr. had such a huge impact on one another’s life and careers makes their reunion all the more exciting and nostalgic.
Downey Jr. and Black first collaborated together back in 2005. Black’s critically acclaimed 2005 noir film,Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang, showcased Downey Jr. playing a “two-bit crook who stumbles into an audition for a mystery film while on the run from the cops.” The pair work well together for the simple fact that Black is somehow able to tap into and explore the many versatile sides and endless depth there is to Downey Jr. as an actor.Kiss Kiss, Bang Bangwas the film that Downey Jr. claims was responsible for putting him on the map and eventually landing himthe role as Iron Man.
Downey Jr. also credits Black and his film with helping him relaunch and establish his career after it was going down the gutter following his battles with substance abuse. What better way to reunite then to re-awaken some of Downey Jr.’s dark side as an actor? Downey Jr. has remained quite in the shadows since he left the MCU. Yet, he seems to be even further leaning into the tone of the anti-hero for the upcoming film.
