Robert Downey Jr. is one of the most beloved and celebrated actors in Hollywood. He has had a long and varied career, spanning over four decades, and has appeared in a wide range of films, from drama to comedy to action.
Best Robert Downey Jr Movies
With his unique charisma, humor, and acting prowess, he has become a household name and a favorite among moviegoers worldwide. In this list, we will explore some of Robert Downey Jr’s best movies, showcasing his incredible talent and versatility as an actor.
1. Iron Man (2008)
“Iron Man” is a 2008 superhero film directed by Jon Favreau and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, a billionaire industrialist who becomes a high-tech superhero after being kidnapped and forced to build a weapon of mass destruction.
The film was a critical and commercial success, and is widely considered one of the best superhero movies ever made.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout performance as Tony Stark, bringing his trademark wit, charm, and charisma to the role, and effectively conveying the character’s personal growth and transformation throughout the film.
“Iron Man” was a defining moment in Downey Jr.’s career, launching him into superstardom and cementing his place in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
2. Iron Man 2 (2010)
“Iron Man 2” is a 2010 superhero film directed by Jon Favreau and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, who faces off against a new enemy, Ivan Vanko (aka Whiplash), played by Mickey Rourke, while dealing with personal issues and his failing health.
The film is a worthy sequel to the original “Iron Man,” featuring impressive action sequences, a great supporting cast, and a deeper exploration of Tony Stark’s character.
Downey Jr. delivers another great performance as Stark, bringing his trademark wit and charisma to the role, while also showcasing the character’s vulnerability and humanity.
His chemistry with co-star Gwyneth Paltrow, who plays Pepper Potts, is also a highlight of the film. “Iron Man 2” may not have been as well-received as the original, but it is still a solid entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and a great showcase of Downey Jr.’s talent.
3. U.S. Marshals (1998)
“U.S. Marshals” is a 1998 action thriller film directed by Stuart Baird and stars Robert Downey Jr. as a convicted criminal who becomes a key player in a complex plot involving the U.S. Marshals Service.
The film is a sequel to the 1993 film “The Fugitive,” and features impressive action sequences and a great supporting cast.
Downey Jr. delivers a solid performance as the charming and elusive criminal, bringing his trademark wit and charisma to the role, and effectively conveying the character’s desperation and cunning. His chemistry with co-star Tommy Lee Jones, who reprises his role as U.S.
Marshal Samuel Gerard, is also a highlight of the film. “U.S. Marshals” may not be as well-known as some of Downey Jr.’s other films, but it is a great example of his ability to shine in action and thriller genres.
4. Iron Man 3 (2013)
“Iron Man 3” is a 2013 superhero film directed by Shane Black and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark, who faces off against a new enemy, the Mandarin, played by Ben Kingsley.
The film is a departure from the previous “Iron Man” films, featuring a darker and more introspective tone, and a greater focus on Tony Stark’s character development.
Downey Jr. delivers a nuanced and emotional performance as Stark, effectively conveying the character’s PTSD and personal struggles, while still showcasing his trademark wit and charisma.
The film also features impressive action sequences and a great supporting cast, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Don Cheadle.
“Iron Man 3” was a critical and commercial success, and is a great example of Downey Jr.’s ability to evolve his character over the course of a film series.
5. The Avengers (2012)
“The Avengers” is a 2012 superhero film directed by Joss Whedon and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, alongside a star-studded ensemble cast of superheroes, including Chris Evans as Captain America, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, and Scarlett Johansson as Black Widow.
The film follows the formation of the Avengers team as they unite to stop the villainous Loki and his alien army from invading Earth. Downey Jr. delivers a standout performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s egotism and arrogance.
While also showcasing his leadership and selflessness as he becomes an integral part of the team. His on-screen chemistry with his fellow Avengers is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable moments and witty banter.
6.Avengers: Endgame (2019)
“Avengers: Endgame” is a 2019 superhero film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, alongside the ensemble cast of the Avengers team.
The film follows the aftermath of the events of “Avengers: Infinity War,” as the surviving Avengers must come together to defeat the villainous Thanos and restore order to the universe.
Downey Jr. delivers a powerful and emotional performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s pain, sacrifice, and heroism as he plays a pivotal role in the film’s climactic battle.
His on-screen chemistry with his fellow Avengers is also a highlight of the film, providing many poignant and heartfelt moments.
“Avengers: Endgame” was a critical and commercial success, and is a great example of Downey Jr.’s ability to bring depth and nuance to his iconic role as Iron Man.
7. Avengers: Infinity War (2018)
“Avengers: Infinity War” is a 2018 superhero film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, alongside the ensemble cast of the Avengers team.
The film follows the Avengers as they face their biggest challenge yet in the form of the powerful villain Thanos, who seeks to collect the six Infinity Stones and use their power to destroy half the universe.
Downey Jr. delivers another great performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s wit, intelligence, and determination as he takes on Thanos and fights to protect the universe.
His on-screen chemistry with his fellow Avengers is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable and thrilling moments.
“Avengers: Infinity War” was a critical and commercial success, and is a great example of Downey Jr.’s ability to bring depth and nuance to his iconic role as Iron Man, even in the midst of a massive ensemble cast.
8. Spider-Man: Homecoming (2017)
“Spider-Man: Homecoming” is a 2017 superhero film directed by Jon Watts and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man in a supporting role, alongside Tom Holland as Spider-Man/Peter Parker.
The film follows Peter Parker as he navigates high school and his new life as a superhero, with the guidance and mentorship of Tony Stark.
Downey Jr. delivers a memorable and charismatic performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s fatherly role to Peter, while also showcasing his wit and humor.
His on-screen chemistry with Tom Holland is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two characters. “Spider-Man: Homecoming” was a critical and commercial success, and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in the film’s appeal to audiences.
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9. Captain America: Civil War (2016)
“Captain America: Civil War” is a 2016 superhero film directed by Anthony and Joe Russo and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, alongside Chris Evans as Captain America and a star-studded ensemble cast of superheroes.
The film follows the Avengers as they are divided into two factions following a political interference that causes a rift between Captain America and Iron Man.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s emotional conflict as he clashes with his former allies and struggles with his own morality.
His on-screen chemistry with Chris Evans is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two characters.
“Captain America: Civil War” was a critical and commercial success, and is a great example of Downey Jr.’s ability to bring depth and nuance to his iconic role as Iron Man, even in the midst of a massive ensemble cast.
![Captain America: Civil War [Blu-ray] [2016]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51Z6td+QcEL.jpg)
10. Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015)
“Avengers: Age of Ultron” is a 2015 superhero film directed by Joss Whedon and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, alongside the ensemble cast of the Avengers team.
The film follows the Avengers as they face off against the artificial intelligence Ultron, who seeks to destroy humanity and the Avengers themselves.
Downey Jr. delivers a great performance as Tony Stark, effectively conveying the character’s wit and charm, while also showcasing his leadership and responsibility as one of the Avengers’ founding members.
His on-screen chemistry with his fellow Avengers is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable moments of humor and action.
“Avengers: Age of Ultron” was a critical and commercial success, and is another great example of Downey Jr.’s ability to bring depth and nuance to his iconic role as Iron Man, even in the midst of a massive ensemble cast.
11. Zodiac (2007)
“Zodiac” is a 2007 crime thriller directed by David Fincher and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Paul Avery, a San Francisco Chronicle reporter investigating the infamous Zodiac Killer case in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
The film is based on true events and follows Avery’s investigation as he becomes obsessed with uncovering the identity of the killer.
Downey Jr. delivers a strong and nuanced performance as Avery, effectively conveying the character’s arrogance, vulnerability, and personal struggles as he delves deeper into the case.
His chemistry with co-star Jake Gyllenhaal, who plays another reporter investigating the case, is also a highlight of the film. “Zodiac” was critically acclaimed and is considered one of Fincher’s best films, and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in its success.
12. Back to School (1986)
“Back to School” is a 1986 comedy film directed by Alan Metter and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a supporting role as Derek Lutz, the best friend of the main character’s son.
The film follows a wealthy businessman who decides to enroll in college to help his struggling son and ends up becoming the life of the party.
Downey Jr. delivers a hilarious and memorable performance as Lutz, effectively conveying the character’s quirky and offbeat personality, and showcasing his comedic talent.
Although a supporting role, his performance was a standout in the film and helped to launch his career in Hollywood. “Back to School” remains a beloved classic comedy and a great showcase of Downey Jr.’s early comedic talent.
13. Tropic Thunder (2008)
“Tropic Thunder” is a 2008 action-comedy film directed by Ben Stiller and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a memorable and controversial role as Kirk Lazarus, a method actor who undergoes a controversial skin pigmentation surgery to play an African-American character in a war film.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout and daring performance as Lazarus, effectively conveying the character’s method acting obsession and comedic wit, while also subverting Hollywood stereotypes and poking fun at the industry’s lack of diversity.
His chemistry with co-stars Ben Stiller and Jack Black is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable and hilarious moments. “Tropic Thunder” was a critical and commercial success, and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in the film’s acclaim and impact.
14. Bowfinger (1999)
“Bowfinger” is a 1999 comedy film directed by Frank Oz and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a supporting role as Jerry Renfro, a sleazy producer who helps a struggling filmmaker played by Steve Martin make his movie.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout and hilarious performance as Renfro, effectively conveying the character’s slimy charm and opportunism, while also showcasing his comedic talent.
His chemistry with co-stars Steve Martin and Eddie Murphy is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable and hilarious moments. “Bowfinger” was a critical and commercial success, and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in the film’s appeal to audiences.
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15. Sherlock Holmes (2009)
“Sherlock Holmes” is a 2009 action-mystery film directed by Guy Ritchie and stars Robert Downey Jr. as the titular character, alongside Jude Law as Dr. John Watson.
The film follows Holmes and Watson as they investigate a string of mysterious murders and uncover a conspiracy involving a powerful sorcerer.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout performance as Holmes, effectively conveying the character’s intelligence, eccentricity, and physicality, while also showcasing his wit and humor.
His on-screen chemistry with Jude Law is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two iconic characters.
“Sherlock Holmes” was a critical and commercial success, and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in its popularity. The film spawned a sequel, “Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows,” in which Downey Jr. reprised his role as the famous detective.
16. Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows (2011)
“Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows” is a 2011 action-mystery film directed by Guy Ritchie and stars Robert Downey Jr. as the titular character, alongside Jude Law as Dr. John Watson.
The film follows Holmes and Watson as they investigate a new villain, Professor Moriarty, who is plotting a grand scheme of political and economic disruption.
Downey Jr. delivers another standout performance as Holmes, effectively conveying the character’s intelligence, eccentricity, and physicality, while also showcasing his wit and humor.
His on-screen chemistry with Jude Law is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two iconic characters.
“Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows” was a critical and commercial success, and Downey Jr.’s performance was once again a key factor in its appeal to audiences.
17. True Believer (1989)
“True Believer” is a 1989 drama film directed by Joseph Ruben and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a supporting role as Roger Baron, the law clerk of a defense attorney played by James Woods.
The film follows Woods’ character as he takes on a new case involving a man who has been wrongfully convicted of murder.
Downey Jr. delivers a solid performance as Baron, effectively conveying the character’s idealism and ambition, while also showcasing his dramatic range.
His chemistry with James Woods is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two characters. “True Believer” was a critical success and Downey Jr.’s performance was praised by critics, marking an early sign of his talent as a dramatic actor.
18. Air America (1990)
“Air America” is a 1990 action-comedy film directed by Roger Spottiswoode and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a leading role as Billy Covington, a young pilot recruited by the CIA to fly for Air America during the Vietnam War.
The film follows Covington as he becomes embroiled in a dangerous and illegal operation involving drugs and weapons smuggling.
Downey Jr. delivers a charismatic and engaging performance as Covington, effectively conveying the character’s charm, wit, and recklessness, while also showcasing his dramatic range in the film’s more intense scenes.
His chemistry with co-star Mel Gibson is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the two characters. “Air America” received mixed reviews but Downey Jr.’s performance was widely praised by critics as a standout of the film.
19. Due Date (2010)
“Due Date” is a 2010 comedy film directed by Todd Phillips and stars Robert Downey Jr. as Peter Highman.
A businessman who is trying to get home to Los Angeles in time for the birth of his child, but gets stuck with an eccentric aspiring actor played by Zach Galifianakis on a wild road trip across the country.
Downey Jr. delivers a hilarious and memorable performance as Highman, effectively conveying the character’s frustration, exasperation, and eventual bonding with Galifianakis’ character.
His on-screen chemistry with Galifianakis is also a highlight of the film, providing many memorable and laugh-out-loud moments. “Due Date” was a commercial success and Downey Jr.’s performance was a key factor in its appeal to audiences.
20. Wonder Boys (2000)
“Wonder Boys” is a 2000 comedy-drama film directed by Curtis Hanson and stars Robert Downey Jr. in a supporting role as Terry Crabtree, a flamboyant and eccentric editor.
The film follows a college professor and writer played by Michael Douglas as he navigates various personal and professional challenges, including a troubled student played by Tobey Maguire and his own romantic entanglements.
Downey Jr. delivers a standout and quirky performance as Crabtree, effectively conveying the character’s offbeat and unpredictable personality, while also showcasing his comedic talent.
His chemistry with co-stars Michael Douglas and Frances McDormand is also a highlight of the film, providing a great dynamic between the three characters.
“Wonder Boys” was a critical success and Downey Jr.’s performance was praised by critics, marking another sign of his versatility as an actor.
3 Reasons To Watch Robert Downey Jr Movies
Dynamic performances: Robert Downey Jr. is known for his dynamic and engaging performances, bringing depth and nuance to his characters. Whether he is playing a superhero or a detective, he always brings a unique energy to his roles, making each character his own.
Versatility: Downey Jr. has shown his versatility as an actor, seamlessly transitioning from comedic roles to dramatic performances. He has a wide range of acting skills that he can draw upon, making him a compelling and versatile performer.
Iconic roles: Downey Jr. has played some of the most iconic roles in film history, such as Tony Stark/Iron Man in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and Sherlock Holmes in the Sherlock Holmes films.
Watching him bring these beloved characters to life is a treat for fans and movie-goers alike.
Best Robert Downey Jr Movies – Wrap Up
In conclusion, Robert Downey Jr. has had a long and successful career in Hollywood, with many standout performances across various genres.
From his iconic portrayal of Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to his dramatic roles in films like “Zodiac” and “Sherlock Holmes,” Downey Jr. has established himself as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation.
His range, charisma, and dynamic performances have captivated audiences for decades, and his legacy as a Hollywood icon is sure to endure for many years to come.
