Key Takeaways:
– Robert Downey Jr., as Iron Man, almost succumbed during the first Avengers movie.
– Jarvis, Stark's AI assistant, implemented a last-ditch maneuver to save Iron Man.
– A fan theory suggests Stark's survival was more planned than anticipated.
– Marvel's What If…? series provides an alternative unfolding of Iron Man's journey post-Battle of New York.
Iron Man's Near-Death Experience during Avengers
Robert Downey Jr's portrayal of Iron Man is irreplaceable in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The character, initiated with the 2008 solo movie, has sparked admiration and intrigue for its exceptional bravery. In fact, Stark's heroic recklessness almost led to his death in the first Avengers movie in 2012. However, a quick save from Stark's AI assistant, Jarvis, kept Iron Man in the fight against the Chitauri alien invasion.
Jarvis: The Life-Saver
Post the annihilation of the Chitauri base, Iron Man found himself plummeting towards Earth, the alien portal closing rapidly behind him. Jarvis, who had supposedly shut down in space, managed to propel Stark at a faster speed by releasing the shoulder pads of his suit. This move, according to fan theory, enabled his timely re-entry to Earth's surface.
Marvel's ‘What If…?' Sheds Light on Stark's Journey
An episode from the ‘What If…?' series on Disney+ adds a new dimension to Iron Man's sensations during the Battle of New York. According to the scenario, Iron Man was hurled through space, eventually landing on the alien planet Sakaar.
Stark's Interactions with Grandmaster on Sakaar
Upon landing in Sakaar, Tony gets the attention of the planet's ruler, Grandmaster, earning the label ‘Mr. Metal Mojo Man'. Stark's attempts at correcting his identity were unsuccessful. As time moved differently on Sakaar, Tony was shown footage of the Avengers' victory back on Earth, leaving him with an intense longing to return. However, Grandmaster, showcasing his might, declined Stark's plea.
The Sakaar Grand Prix and a Determined Tony
Undeterred, Tony found himself, Valkyrie, and Korg in the deadly Sakaar Grand Prix. Amid the pandemonium, Gamora targeted Tony on Thanos' orders but were subdued by Topaz. Stark, Korg, and Valkyrie escaped, leaving Gamora behind. Their escape led Tony into a plot of freeing Sakaar.
Stark's Ultimate Victory and Return to Earth
Tony challenged Grandmaster to a race in a ploy to liberate Sakaar. As events unfolded, Tony's arc reactor-powered race car emerged victorious, with Grandmaster meeting an unfortunate end. Subsequently, Valkyrie ascended as the new ruler and Tony, with Gamora's aid, made his eventual return home and successfully dispatched Thanos.
In conclusion, Robert Downey Jr.'s Iron Man has led a thrilling journey across the MCU, filled with near-death experiences and incredible heroism. Fans can delve deeper into these alternate outcomes on Disney+'s What If…? series.
