Marvel Studios issued a press release today with an update on their plans for Iron Man in film for the next few years. A few interesting details are revealed here, like Rhodey being in the Avengers film and what seems like a veiled reference to Iron Man 3 being a distinct possibility. You be the judge. Hopefully we’ll get an update on The First Avenger: Captain America and Thor as well in the next few weeks.
ROBERT DOWNEY JR. AND JON FAVREAU SUIT UP FOR MARVEL STUDIOS’ THE AVENGERS AND IRON MAN 2
As part of his four picture deal with Marvel Studios, Robert Downey Jr. is appearing as Tony Stark in The Avengers motion picture, as well as reprising his starring role as the larger-than-life leading character in Iron Man 2. Jon Favreau will return to direct the sequel to the blockbuster IRON MAN, which to date has grossed over $578 million worldwide, as well as executive produce The Avengers.
Academy Award nominee Downey was most recently seen in the summer comedy blockbuster Tropic Thunder starring opposite Ben Stiller and Jack Black. Before Iron Man, he was best known for his film roles in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Wonder Boys and Chaplin, the film for which he was nominated for an Oscar.
In addition to directing the first Iron Man, Favreau has previously directed Elf, Zathura: A Space Adventure and Made. He is also well known for writing and starring in Swingers. He will next be seen acting in Four Christmases, I Love You Man and Couples Retreat.
DON CHEADLE WILL STAR AS RHODEY IN IRON MAN 2
Marvel Studios is pleased today to confirm that an agreement has been finalized with award-winning actor Don Cheadle to take on the role of Colonel James “Rhodey” Rhodes in Marvel’s Iron Man 2 due in theaters on May 7, 2010. In casting Cheadle, Marvel replaces Terrence Howard who appeared in the role of Rhodey in Iron Man. Cheadle is also signed on to perform the same role in The Avengers and subsequent installments of the Iron Man franchise.
“We are very excited about working with the extraordinarily talented Don Cheadle as we expand the role of Rhodey in Iron Man 2. It has already become apparent as we prep the movie for production, that the dynamic between Robert and Don will take Iron Man 2 to new heights,” said Kevin Feige, President of Marvel Studios.
Cheadle is best known for his Oscar nominated lead performance in Hotel Rwanda as well as his role as Basher Tarr in the Ocean’s franchise, Crash and Swordfish.
Based on Marvel’s iconic Super Hero, Iron Man 2 continues the story of this summer’s box office blockbuster Iron Man, the first feature film produced independently by Marvel Studios. Iron Man 2 will be produced by Marvel Studios’ President, Kevin Feige, and executive produced by Louis D’Esposito, Jon Favreau, Stan Lee, David Maisel and Denis Stewart.
In a movie event, The Avengers will bring together the super hero team of Marvel Comics characters for the first time ever, including Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, the Hulk and more, as they are forced to band together to battle the biggest foe they’ve ever faced.
The highly anticipated sequel to Iron Man will be released in theaters on May 7, 2010 and The Avengers will be released July 15, 2011. Both films will be distributed by Paramount Pictures.
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On October 28, 2008, Troll said:
…very interesting…
On October 29, 2008, Redd said:
Why would they replace Terrence Howard?
I thought that he did a great job as Rodey.
Cheadle is going to need to pack on the pounds and bulk up for the role of War Machine.
Cheadle is waaayyyy too skinny for the role.
Terrance looked a lot better for the role.