Robert Downey Jr. Shares Heartfelt Tribute to the Fans of the MCU
We’ve been reporting a ton of cool facts and behind the scenes tidbits from the recently released book The Story of Marvel Studios: The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Now we have an excerpt to share with you that includes a letter from the leader of the first three phases, also known as The Infinity Saga, Iron Man himself, Robert Downey Jr..
The letter was written back in 2018, after he had finished wrapping Avengers: Endgame, and it was dedicated to the fans. Here’s the full letter:
I distinctly remember she (Gwyneth Paltrow), Favs (Jon Favreau, director), and me sitting in a dilapidated Quonset hut, talking Potts and Stark, when he suddenly swelled up with a wave of emotion . . . joy, relief, faith, and grief all made a showing:
(Me, looking at him)
"What's up, boss?
(Him, looking at her)
"I just realized this movie's gonna work."Turns out he was right; yet, there were other oxymoronic keys to Iron Man's unlikely success, namely:
A) Unorthodox efficiency
B) Ceaseless developmentAnd it goes without saying that Jackson's presence throughout (and portrayal of Fury) have been a connective tissue, our bridge over numerous credibility gaps. Johansson, Cheadle, Renner, Ruffalo, Hemsworth, Evans, Olsen, and I remain close-knit. (Yes, there's talk of a group tattoo.)
We are more than impressed with Pratt, Lilly, Rudd, Cumberbatch, now Boseman, not to mention Larson, whom we all agree will be a fitting and capable advance guard for the second decade of shenanigans. I would loathe not to include Holland (therefore Watts) in the mix, having somehow re-relaunched the most recognizable of all Marvel creations.
I'll extend to Reynolds as well (to further prove I'm not distributor-specific regarding fellowship). While I have your car, I'll reach way back to day one, and express gratitude to Howard (our original Rhode)'), who was integral to my being cast. Almost lastly, every nemesis that Tony has encountered thus far deserves an honorable mention, so kudos to Bridges, Rourke, Kingsley, Pearce, Hiddleston, Spader, and, finally, Brolin.
The Who, is YOU .. . If you made it to the "end credits" of this anniversary edition, you're likely a fan, so there's your Easter egg, darlings . . . a mirror! Folks who respond to mythological storytelling arc positively the propellant of all things Marvel. It's always been that way, no supply required without demand. Ever since Comic Con 2007, it's been apparent that the audience (no offense, THX) was no longer just listening. For ten years, YOU have copiloted the narrative.
Finally, I hope these films have evoked a dialogue on equality, justice, freedom, embracing diversity, and combating intolerance with the power of partnership, sacrifice, and love.
At this point, Tony might say: "You're welcome." I'll balance that with a boundless eternal: "Thank you."
It was certainly a seemingly kismet happening that RDJ was cast in this role and the MCU became what we know it to be today. It’s awesome that the casts and crews of these films seem to be so humble and that they acknowledge the fans for their part in the ultimate success of each film and character.
To read more cool stories, pick up your own copy of The Story of Marvel Studios: The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, available now in stores.
Via: Filmbeat