Key Takeaways:
– Susan Levin, Robert Downey Jr’s wife, played a significant role in him choosing to star in the 2005 movie, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.
– The film showcased Downey’s versatility and opened the door for him to play the iconic role of Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
– The actor later pulled in the director of Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Shane Black, for Iron Man 3, strengthening his link to the film.
A Significant Influence on Career Choices
Overcoming personal struggles and paving his way to a successful career, Hollywood actor Robert Downey Jr. returned to Hollywood’s limelight after a prolonged battle with substance abuse. His fame reignited when he starred alongside Val Kilmer in the 2005 comedy movie ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.’ Remarkably, Downey Jr’s then-girlfriend, now wife, Susan Levin, played a pivotal role in this critical career decision. Her laughter at a scene from Shane Black’s screenplay caught Downey Jr’s attention and eventually led him to the role.
Breathing Life into a Unique Script
Downey Jr. recalled how Levin’s giggling sparked his interest in the script. Titled as a ‘Johnny Knoxville’ project, she read aloud a humorous scene involving a character’s finger being severed and stolen by a dog. This odd blend of comedy and action intrigued Downey Jr., leading him to decide he had to be part of the movie, hence venturing into a role that would forever change his career trajectory.
The Unseen Success of ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’
Despite being a commercial let-down with earnings just surpassing its budget, ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ gave Downey Jr. a platform, leading him to recognition which included a Saturn Award nod in 2006. The film’s unique combination of humor and action allowed the actor to showcase his range as an actor and set the stage for future roles.
Paving the Path to Iconic Characters
Although ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ went largely unnoticed due to a quiet box office release, the actor’s performance didn’t go undetected in the industry. Reportedly, Downey Jr.’s role caught the attention of director Jon Favreau and led Downey Jr. to land his iconic role as Iron Man. This role transformed Downey Jr’s career skyrocketing him to global acclaim. Years later, the 2005 film became a modern cult classic with Downey Jr. admitting that it was his “calling card to Iron Man.”
Reuniting with Shane Black for Iron Man 3
Having tasted great success with the MCU movies, Downey Jr. sought to collaborate with Shane Black – the director of ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ for Iron Man 3. In a 2010 phone call, Downey Jr. requested Black to write and direct the sequel, marking yet another crucial turning point in his career.
In Retrospect
Looking back, it’s clear that Susan Levin’s nudging played a significant role, influencing Downey Jr’s career. Choosing to star in ‘Kiss Kiss Bang Bang’ not only showcased his acting prowess but also created a path leading him to Iron Man’s role in the MCU, synonymizing him with the beloved superhero.
