Robert Downey Jr's career is marked by a huge amount of success and some personal lows but he is now considered a major A-lister in the film industry. He has starred in multiple large budget blockbuster movies to character specific art house roles which showcase his range as a versatile performer.
The "Dolittle" Debacle
In 2020, RDJ starred in “Dolittle” which was a highly anticipated film . The film’s purpose was to begin a new series in which the actor could play the main lead in something unique but that concept unfortunately didn't come to fruition when it became a massive flop. “Dolittle” was meant to showcase his popularity and expand beyond his already famous Iron Man character but it took him in a direction he did not expect with a major commercial failure.
Behind-the-Scenes Issues
The issues came in pre-production. The film used a $175 million budget, with $20 million as Downey's salary. The direction, and what to expect after production also went awry. Rewrites, reshoots and creative disagreements created an unorganized plan to get a finished product which was not well received in the market. This project also resulted in the use of several creative directors which altered the films original intention. This led to a chaotic final product with many elements viewers did not enjoy.
Commercial Failure and Aftermath
Released in January the movie was viewed as an afterthought which many see as “dump month”. It opened number 3 in the box office in contrast to Bad Boys for Life and it didn't bring the commercial success it was hoped to garner with only earning 251.4 million world wide when production costs alone was at a high $175 million.
Lessons from “Dolittle”
Downey refers to “Dolittle” as a very important project that caused reflection on what went wrong and ultimately it shifted how he would do things in his future ventures. With his huge reputation and having multiple blockbuster roles prior he now focused more on what has true meaning to his growth versus what is already known and predictable.
Dangers of Overconfidence and IP
The creative process seemed to be influenced by a degree of hubris with those involved. RDJ and all involved were focused on a commercial play rather than focusing on the story. “Dolittle” ultimately emphasized the need to be authentic when it came to both creative and financial areas. IP recognition will only go so far if other aspects of the story are lacking or missing.
Robert Downey Jr. as Doctor Doom in the MCU
Now having a unique take on film selections and the new direction that he is taking. Many were happy that he might now return to Marvel in a different style. After all, with a prior role so iconic some new characters and directions were something all wanted to see.
A New Path After "Dolittle"
After the major commercial failure Downey decided to focus his new role choices with more thoughtfulness and creativity in his career after his work as Iron Man. One element of his story arc was that even if a film has IP backing, does not equal an easy way for success which shifted his point of view on projects to come. This led him back to the Marvel Cinematic Universe but as another type of character from Doom as opposed to Stark as it had been in past works.
Potential "Sherlock Holmes 3" and "The Odyssey"
Many rumors have circled that “Sherlock Homes 3” will happen where he reprises his past role as Holmes. While "The Odyssey" as Christopher Nolan's next film has generated fan interest . These projects demonstrate RDJ's versatility and how he continues to seek diverse and challenging characters beyond Iron Man or other well known works he had previously delivered.
Learning From Previous Failures
His role as “Sherlock” had high points however this role could be refined given prior adaptations including one that was done through a series and did not land as fans would have wanted. A new Sherlock can bring a much more refined understanding of the characters history which had gone previously unfulfilled. This focus on proper delivery helps set standards in all media interpretations.
Robert Downey Jr in “Thunderbolts” Rumors and Perspectives
Rumors surrounding RDJ returning to the MCU in a different capacity in "Thunderbolts" has taken over media as of late. Many have a strong interest in seeing his transition into new character portrayal. Sebastian Stan was questioned regarding this new possibility and also shared insight into Marvel's thought process while working on movies for this universe.
Stan’s Take on Downey’s New Role
Sebastian Stan shared that Marvel Studios is always looking at ways to grow with new ideas and is not bound to past expectations with a desire for exploring new approaches that challenge traditional norms in story and character selection. This mindset promotes higher production values and challenges old norms by creating content that all fans will appreciate long term.
Key Takeaways
- Robert Downey Jr. experienced a career low with "Dolittle" but then an immense comeback with"Oppenheimer."
- "Dolittle" showcased how big budget backing or pre existing material did not guarantee a win.
- RDJ’s “Dolittle” experience altered his path by carefully selecting meaningful roles that also allowed room for creativity.
- The MCU comeback as Dr Doom adds new layers of depth to this character portrayal and challenges perceptions of an actor with a long history in an iconic role.
- "Sherlock Holmes 3” as well as Nolan's “Odyssey” shows his commitment to creative ventures.