“It was very freeing for me”: Even Iron Man and Sherlock Holmes Didn’t Give Robert Downey Jr. The Rare Experience That His $15 Million Film With Val Kilmer Did

Robert Downey Jr is best known as the genius playboy billionaire Tony Stark but the actor had a blast in this 2005 movie as a foolish and dumb thief.

sherlock holmes, val kilmer

SUMMARY

  • Robert Downey Jr has portrayed some really suave and intense characters in his career
  • But the actor confessed to enjoying playing his foolish and clumsy role in the 2005 Shane Black movie
  • Downey portrayed Harry in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, a satirical black comedy crime thriller, saying he felt 'free'
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Actor Robert Downey Junior gained worldwide fame and recognition with his role as Tony Stark in the 2008 Iron Man movie. The actor had been working in the industry for several years but it is with the start of this franchise that he gained the deserved exposure and fame.

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Robert Downey Jr with the Iron Man suit in the 2008 Iron Man movie
Robert Downey Jr in Iron Man (2008) | Paramount Pictures

Since then the Iron Man actor has appeared in vastly contrasting movies and shows, showcasing his acting ability. But the actor seems to enjoy portraying easy-going characters, having revealed he enjoyed working on this 2005 film in which his character was rather dim-witted.

Robert Downey Jr in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

In 2005 Shane Black released his directorial debut, a black comedy crime film, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The movie starred Robert Downey Jr and Van Kilmer in lead roles. It was a tongue-in-cheek attempt at satire which garnered average reviews at the Box Office. But the Iron Man actor loved this flippant and foolish role. He portrayed Harold “Harry” Lockhart, a petty thief who ends up winning a screentest and lands in the midst of a murder investigation.

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Robert Downey Jr as Harold in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Robert Downey Jr in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang | Warner Bros. Pictures

I think it was very freeing for me because I’d been hitherto associated with these fast-talking smart guys, which I am not necessarily.

In an interview with Vanity Fair Downey Jr. recounts how he enjoyed working alongside co-actor Kilmer on this chaotic movie. He plays a foolish role for the first time in his career, where earlier he always used to play the ‘smart’ or ‘suave’ guy. The actor reveals working on this film allowed him to let go and act ‘freely’ for once.

I have nothing but fond memories about Kiss Kiss Bang Bang

Robert Downey Jr as Harold in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang
Robert Downey Jr in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang | Warner Bros. Pictures

Though the actor is known for his ability to play intense and critical characters, he also shines in this witless role. The movie was also praised by the critics for it’s eclectic neo-noir homage.

Robert Downey Jr as the not-so-smart Harry

Downey Jr’s character in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, was a treat to watch because of his impeccable comic timing and lovable traits. The actor as Harold or ‘Harry’ was clumsy, foolish and a little bit ditzy, floundering about in the satirical crime thriller film.

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Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man in the final 'snap scene' in Avengers: Endgame
Robert Downey Jr in Avengers: Endgame | Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

I just found it so delightful to be staying up all night with Van Kilmer shooting these ridiculous scenes

The movie showcased the hilarious bond between the lead actors. Downey Jr. said he loved working with co-star Kilmer who played ‘Perry’, a private investigator who was the ‘smart guy’ in this movie.

Watch Kiss Kiss Bang Bang on Amazon Prime Video.

Shruti Pathak

Written by Shruti Pathak

Articles Published: 17

An entertainment writer with a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, Shruti Pathak is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in English. She is also a devoted poetry enthusiast, exploring the beauty of language and emotion through verse. Obsessed with the show Friends, a self-proclaimed swiftie, and inspired by classical literature these are just some characteristics that describe the novice writer. Newly joining FandomWire as an intern writer, she hopes to share her thoughts while sharpening her writing skills on various entertainment topics.