- Robert Downey Jr. is best known for playing Iron Man, but he's been acting since he was a child.
- The actor's highest-rated films include "Richard III" (1995) and "True Believer" (1989).
- His lowest-rated movies, however, are "Johnny Be Good" (1988) and "Friends and Lovers" (1999).
Robert Downey Jr.'s lowest-rated movie is "Johnny Be Good" (1988).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 0%
Summary: In "Johnny Be Good," prized quarterback Johnny Walker (Anthony Michael Hall) gets a flurry of college offers before he graduates. While his best friend (Robert Downey Jr.) suggests he waits for the best option, his girlfriend (Uma Thurman) pressures him to pick their state school.
Critics agreed across the board that there was nothing redeemable about the slap-stick-heavy film.
Guillermo Altares wrote it off as "an insufferable comedy" in his review for El Pais.
He had a brief cameo in "Up the Academy" (1980).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 0%
Summary: In "Up the Academy," four geeks are sent to Sheldon R. Wienberg Military Academy and find a way to stick it to the Major.
The actor appeared briefly in a scene of the film, which was directed by his father, Robert Downey Sr.
Critics across the board panned the pre-pubescent comedy.
"I can't remember anticipating the end of a film with such exuberance," Michael Blowen wrote for The Boston Globe.
The actor played Hans in "Friends and Lovers" (1999).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 7%
Summary: When Ian (George Newbern) gets a chance to reconnect with his estranged father at a ski lodge in Utah, he decides to bring his closest friends along for the ride.
Downey Jr. had a supporting role in the film as Hans, a smooth-talking ski instructor.
"Friends and Lovers" was ripped apart by critics, who found it offensive and somewhat boring.
"This movie is not merely bad, but incompetent," Roger Ebert wrote for the Chicago Sun-Times. "I get tapes in the mail from 10th graders that are better made than this."
In "Air America" (1990), he was Billy Covington.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 13%
Summary: After losing his pilot's license, Billy Covington (Downey Jr.) is approached by Air America to transport illegal goods through Southeast Asia alongside hot-headed copilot Gene Ryack (Mel Gibson).
Critics couldn't help but feel like actors phoned in their performances for the action-comedy.
"Everybody on-screen seems awfully bored," Rob Thomas wrote for the Capital Times.
He was Pete Graham in "Gothika" (2003).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 14%
Summary: In this mind-bending thriller, criminal psychologist Dr. Miranda Grey (Halle Berry) suddenly finds herself trapped in a mental hospital after she's accused of killing her husband.
Downey Jr. starred opposite Berry as Dr. Pete Graham.
With endless plot twists and preposterous writing, "Gothika" fell flat for most critics.
Nell Minow called it a "grisly, disturbing, extremely violent horror film" in her review for Common Sense Media.
He played Reed Richmond in "Too Much Sun" (1991).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 14%
Summary: When their wealthy father passes away, his son (Eric Idle) and daughter (Andrea Martin) learn that they can only access their inheritance if they produce an heir within a year.
In "Too Much Sun," Downey Jr. had a supporting role as real-estate agent Reed Richmond.
The comedy made critics uneasy with its outdated depictions of gay characters.
"While 'Too Much Sun' is hardly offensive enough to merit a community outcry, it's certainly worth a collective cold shoulder," Karl Soehnlein wrote for Out Week.
Downey Jr. starred as Dr. John Dolittle in "Dolittle" (2020).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 15%
Summary: Blessed with an uncanny ability to communicate with animals, Dr. John Dolittle (Downey Jr.) sets off on the high seas with a menagerie of friends to secure a healing miracle for Queen Victoria.
"Dolittle" didn't win over many critics, who gave it poor marks for distracting animation sequences and underwhelming dialogue.
"It's symptomatic of an awkward, unwieldy movie that has lots of material to show you and lots of surface distractions, but nothing at all to say," Kevin Maher wrote for The Times.
In "Tuff Turf" (1985), he was Jimmy Parker.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 17%
Summary: After moving to Los Angeles, rebellious teen Morgan (James Spader) and his new friend Jimmy (Downey Jr.) try to charm local girls and fend off bullies in this coming-of-age drama.
According to critics, "Tuff Turf" was all bravado with little substance.
David Nusair said "Tuff Turf" was about "as bad as it gets when it comes to cheesy '80s teen flicks," in his review for Reel Film Reviews.
He was Vivian Thompson in the horror flick "In Dreams" (1999).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 25%
Summary: Claire Cooper (Annette Bening) finds herself haunted by someone else's memories after a serial killer (Downey Jr.) descends on her cozy New England town.
Some found the film too routine and others found it too abstract, but either way, "In Dreams" failed to enthrall reviewers.
"[It's an] ambitious but ultimately incoherent and frustrating tale that may be too cerebral for the horror genre crowds and too literal-minded for the genre's more intelligent viewers," Emanuel Levy wrote for Variety.
In "The Shaggy Dog" (2006), the actor appeared as Marcus Kozak.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 26%
Summary: After work-obsessed lawyer Dave Douglas (Tim Allen) is bit by a sheepdog, he starts magically transforming into a dog, and his perspective on family changes for the better.
Downey Jr. played the villainous Dr. Marcus Kozak.
Harmless but largely forgettable, "The Shaggy Dog" was decidedly geared towards young children and left little for adults to enjoy.
"Man becomes mutt in this inoffensive, uneven comedy that fails to make the most of its comic potential or familiar cast," Anna Smith wrote for Empire Magazine.
The actor appeared in "Lucky You" (2007).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 28%
Summary: In "Lucky You," a talented poker player (Eric Bana) vies for a spot in the world championship game in Las Vegas while balancing an intense love affair. But by the time the tournament starts, he's in debt to multiple people and risks going up against his estranged father (Robert Duvall).
Downey Jr. appeared in the film as Telephone Jack.
Most critics weren't impressed with the film, calling it slow and predictable.
David Denby wrote for The New Yorker, "Most of 'Lucky You,' starting with the title, is ordinary or outright awful. Moviemakers, it seems, cannot bluff their way to success."
He played Franz Mazur in "Hugo Pool" (1997).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 29%
Summary: In this eccentric comedy, Hugo Dugay (Alyssa Milano) encounters oddball characters as she cleans pools across Los Angeles.
Downey Jr. starred alongside Milano as filmmaker Franz Mazur.
Overall, critics called "Hugo Pool" a relatively shallow and mildly diverting drama.
Shannon J. Harvey described it as an "interesting, but not riveting, slice of life [film] in Southern California," in her review for The Sunday Times.
Downey Jr. played Special Agent Royce in "US Marshals" (1998).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 30%
Summary: In this follow-up to "The Fugitive" (1993), US Marshal Samuel Gerard (Tommy Lee Jones) and his team of agents track down escaped convict Sheridan (Wesley Snipes).
Downey Jr. filled out the ensemble cast as Special Agent Royce.
A by-the-numbers spin-off, "US Marshals" failed to captivate critics.
"'US Marshals' merely spins through the pursuit-thriller motions," Yael Shuv wrote for Total Film.
He played Lionel Sweeney in "Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus" (2006).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 32%
Summary: Diane Arbus (Nicole Kidman) works as a doting assistant for her photographer husband (Ty Burrell) until she finds herself distracted by her secluded neighbor, Lionel Sweeney (Downey Jr.).
"Fur" was received as a heavily stylized but aimless production.
"An interestingly designed but inescapably pointless film," Peter Bradshaw wrote for The Guardian.
In "One Night Stand" (1997), he played Charlie.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 34%
Summary: In "One Night Stand," Max (Snipes) flies to New York to visit his old friend Charlie (Downey Jr.) and fights temptations to cheat on his wife (Ming-Na Wen) while he's away from home.
Critics fell in love with the acting performances at the center of the film but found little else to recommend in the drama.
"The performances are all fine; it's the writer, composer, and director, Mike Figgis all, that spoil the show," critic David N. Butterworth wrote.
The actor was Nick Penrose in "Eros" (2004).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 34%
Summary: "Eros" is an anthology from three filmmakers — Michelangelo Antonioni, Steven Soderbergh, and Wong Kar Wai — that revolves around love and intimacy.
In the segment "Equilibrium," Downey Jr. played Nick Penrose, an advertising executive in 1950s New York.
In critics' eyes, "Eros" showed moments of inspiration but couldn't overcome its unpredictable tone and plotting.
"Anthologies by their inherent nature tend to be highly uneven," Tom Dawson wrote for the BBC. "And 'Eros' proves no exception, with the individual sections ranging from the sublime to the ridiculous."
Downey Jr. appeared as Lee in "Firstborn" (1984).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 36%
Summary: Eldest son Jake (Christopher Collet) steps up to protect his family when his mother's (Teri Garr) abusive new boyfriend moves in.
In the family drama, Downey Jr. played Jake's friend Lee.
Critics praised the actors at work in "Firstborn" but felt like the movie tripped itself up in every other regard.
"The best things about 'Firstborn' are the easy, natural performances of the actors," Janet Maslin wrote for the New York Times.
The actor made a brief cameo in "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" (1985).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 36%
Summary: In "Girls Just Want to Have Fun," talented gymnast Janey (Sarah Jessica Parker) moves to a new town and meets Lynne (Helen Hunt), who shows her how to disobey her father and have fun. With her friend's support, Janey enters a TV dance competition and meets a dreamy partner.
Downey Jr. had an uncredited role in the film as a party crasher.
Some critics called the film cheesy, but others found the nostalgic story line entertaining.
"We all know a movie like this isn't appealing to anyone beside the folks who grew up during that time," Felix Vasquez Jr. wrote for Cinema Crazed.
He played Terry in "Black and White" (1999).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 38%
Summary: In "Black and White," Sam (Brooke Shields) and her husband Terry (Downey Jr.) get close to rap influencer Rich Bower (Oliver "Power" Grant) and his circle as Sam films a documentary.
"Black and White" wasn't a total miss, but many critics wanted more from the drama.
"As lively and amusing as the film is in some ways, it does set up expectations at the outset that are never really delivered upon," Todd McCarthy wrote for Variety.
In "The Singing Detective" (2003), he starred as Dan Dark.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 39%
Summary: In "The Singing Detective," crime novelist Dan Dark (Downey Jr.) plots out his next story in his head as he recovers in a hospital.
Critics were enthralled by Downey Jr.'s central performance, but the disjointed nature of "The Singing Detective" ultimately tanked its reception.
Marjorie Baumgarten said it "perpetually feels as if it were a good idea that was never fully thought through," in her review for The Austin Chronicle
He was Peter Highman in "Due Date" (2010).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 40%
Summary: Peter Highman (Downey Jr.) is forced to hitch a ride with a stranger (Zach Galifianakis) as he road trips west for the birth of his son.
"Due Date" yielded laughs from critics early on, but the crude comedy faltered as it relied too heavily on cheap gags.
"Oscar-nominated actor Robert Downey Jr. usually has a knack for picking good movies. But 'Due Date' is not one of them," Candice Frederick wrote for Reel Talk Online.
Downey played Wayne Gale in "Natural Born Killers" (1994).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 48%
Summary: Psychopathic serial killers Mickey (Woody Harrelson) and Mallory Knox (Juliette Lewis) become famous overnight as they travel across the country killing innocent victims.
Downey Jr. had a supporting role as tabloid journalist Wayne Gale.
"Natural Born Killers" earned a mixed review from critics, who couldn't agree if the satire was smart or too broad.
"'Natural Born Killers' finds [director Oliver] Stone throwing everything against the wall to see what sticks," Matt Noller wrote for Slant Magazine.
In "The Judge" (2014), the actor starred as Hank Palmer.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 49%
Summary: Jaded lawyer Hank Palmer (Downey Jr.) travels home after his mother's death and finds himself defending his estranged father (Duvall) in court for an unexpected crime.
Critics largely agreed that "The Judge" was a middling drama that relied too heavily on Downey Jr.'s star power.
"Unfortunately, when Downey is not centre-stage the drama becomes leaden, sentimental and utterly improbable," Kate Muir wrote for The Times.
He played Julian Wells in "Less Than Zero" (1987).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 50%
Summary: Inspired by the novel by Bret Easton Ellis, in "Less Than Zero" Clay (Andrew McCarthy) returns home to Beverly Hills and he gets swept up in Julian's (Downey Jr.) drama as his friend's drug addiction spirals out of control.
The film had the look and feel of an acclaimed drama, but critics felt like the plot didn't quite measure up.
"Ed Lachman's cinematography is letter perfect as always in its handling of light and color ... but it's a pity to see it wasted on such claptrap," Jonathan Rosenbaum wrote for the Chicago Reader.
He had a small role in another one of his father's films, "Greaser's Palace" (1972)
Rotten Tomatoes score: 50%
Summary: "Greaser's Palace" tells a parable of the life of Jesus Christ in a Wild West town.
Downey Jr. appeared in the film in an uncredited role as "Small Boy in Covered Wagon."
Critics weren't blown away by the Western comedy, but many appreciated the film's satire.
Nathan Rabin wrote for the AV Club, "As a product of an unusually adventurous time in cinema history, 'Greaser's Palace' has perverse appeal. As a comedy, it's virtually unwatchable."
He played Blake Allen in "Two Girls and a Guy" (1997).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 50%
Summary: In this comedic drama, Lou (Natasha Gregson Wagner) and Carla (Heather Graham) confront Blake (Downey Jr.) when they realize he's been stringing them both along for months.
Critics mostly felt like "Two Girls and a Guy" fell in the middle ground between a solid comedy and well-written romance.
"It only half succeeds," critic Felix Gonzalez Jr. wrote. "The laughs are well earned, but the attempts at serious romantic analysis fall short of poignancy."
In "Only You" (1994), he was Peter Wright.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 53%
Summary: After growing up believing that her future soulmate's name is Damon Bradley, Faith (Marisa Tomei) takes a spontaneous trip to Italy when she thinks she's finally found the one she's been looking for.
Downey Jr. starred opposite Tomei as her love interest, Peter Wright.
Sweet and cheesy in equal measure, "Only You" fell short for some critics.
"[D]espite the lovely Italian locales and a relatively appealing cast, the film is far too cloying for all but the most sentimental tastes," wrote the staff at TV Guide.
The actor was Ralph Carr in "1969" (1988).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 55%
Summary: As the Vietnam War ensues, teenagers Scott (Kiefer Sutherland) and Ralph (Downey Jr.) approach adulthood.
"1969" was a largely overlooked film that didn't impress most critics, but it didn't exactly disappoint them either.
Film critic Scott Weinberg called it a "surprisingly engaging drama with a few great performances."
Downey Jr. starred as Thomas Reilly in "Heart and Souls" (1993).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 55%
Summary: When four strangers die in a bus accident in 1959, they become the guardians of a young child named Thomas, who was born on that same fateful night.
Downey Jr. starred as the 30-year-old Thomas.
"Heart and Souls" gained positive reception from critics, who didn't mind a healthy dose of sentimentality in their scripts.
"I have remained fond of 'Heart and Souls,' despite its annoying power to leave not a dry eye in the house," Jeffrey M. Anderson wrote for Combustible Celluloid.
In "Weird Science" (1985), he was Ian.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 56%
Summary: Underdog nerds Gary (Anthony Michael Hall) and Wyatt (Ilan Mitchell-Smith) get more than they bargained for when they design their dream woman on a computer.
Downey Jr. appeared as high-school bully Ian.
Riddled with stereotypes, "Weird Science" was received as one of John Hughes' lesser works, even if it retained a wisp of charm.
"'Weird Science' is certainly an 80's curiosity for anyone who is a fan of John Hughes, but it is definitely more of a questionable relic of that era than his other works," Andrew Gaudion wrote for Vulture Hound.
He played Steve Lopez in "The Soloist" (2009).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 57%
Summary: Based on a true story, "The Soloist" follows LA columnist Steve Lopez (Downey Jr.) as his world view shifts when he crosses paths with Nathaniel Ayers (Jamie Foxx), a musically gifted man who's experiencing homelessness.
After the success of the director Joe Wright's earlier films, like "Pride and Prejudice" (2005) and "Atonement" (2007), critics expected more from the drama.
"While 'The Soloist' is certainly not a cinematic dud, it falls dramatically short of Wright's earlier films," Richard Propes wrote for the Independent Critic. "[But it's] redeemed by Robert Downey, Jr.'s usual standout performance."
He was Principal Gardner in "Charlie Bartlett" (2007).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 58%
Summary: Head-strong teen Charlie Bartlett (Anton Yelchin) flirts with disaster as he peddles drugs to classmates and falls for Susan (Kat Dennings), the daughter of his high-school principal (Downey Jr.).
The coming-of-age tale received mixed reviews, but some critics felt it was ahead of its time.
"'Charlie Bartlett' is a refreshingly entertaining character study that refuses to dumb down its youthful cast or bury their concerns in service of a catchy soundtrack," Claudia Puig wrote for USA Today.
Downey Jr. portrayed Charles Chaplin in "Chaplin" (1992).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 59%
Summary: In his old age, legendary silent-film actor Charlie Chaplin (Downey Jr.) revisits key moments in his life and his career.
Like other projects Downey Jr. has starred in, critics were captivated by his lead performance but largely disappointed in the film's direction and writing.
"What is stunningly good about 'Chaplin,' despite the script, is the central performance by Robert Downey Jr.," Vanessa Letts wrote for The Spectator.
In "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" (2011), the actor returned as the titular detective.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 59%
Summary: In this action-packed sequel, Holmes (Downey Jr.) and Watson (Jude Law) try to track down their nemesis Moriarty (Jared Harris) before his next murder plot.
Many critics described "Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows" as overblown and overlong, although they still loved the film's leading actors.
"Downey and Law remain this presumptive franchise's draw," Lisa Kennedy wrote for The Denver Post.
He played Clyde Pell in "The Gingerbread Man" (1998).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 59%
Summary: When lawyer Rick Magruder (Kenneth Branagh) falls in love with Mallory (Embeth Davidtz), he puts her abusive father (Duvall) in jail to protect her. But when Mallory's father escapes, Rick soon realizes that no one is safe.
Downey Jr. had a supporting role in the thriller as Rick's investigator Clyde Pell.
Critics were split on their consensus of "The Gingerbread Man," with some calling it a solid thriller and others dismissing it as barely serviceable.
Cynthia Fuchs called it "uneven, often predictable and occasionally strange," in her review for the Philadelphia City Paper.
In "Game 6" (2005), he was Steven Schwimmer.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 60%
Summary: "Game 6" follows playwright Nicky Rogan (Michael Keaton) across a nerve-wracking weekend as his favorite baseball team enters the World Series and an influential critic (Downey Jr.) threatens to bury his career.
Critics rated "Game 6" as a solid dramatic comedy that suffered from narrow audience appeal.
"For fans of [screenwriter] DeLillo, Keaton and/or either team in that classic World Series, this curious little picture is worth tracking down," Andrew O'Hehir wrote for Salon.
He played Jack Jericho in "The Pick-Up Artist" (1987).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 61%
Summary: Jack Jericho (Downey Jr.) is a slick pick-up artist who can seemingly get any woman he wants — until he meets Randy Jensen (Molly Ringwald).
"The Pick-Up Artist" was received as a mildly entertaining romantic comedy that largely played it safe.
"Molly Ringwald and Robert Downey Jr. head the unusually talented cast of characters assembled for this small but taut film," Cathy Burke wrote for the United Press International.
The actor was Tommy Larson in "Home for the Holidays" (1995).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 64%
Summary: After getting fired, Claudia Larson (Holly Hunter) travels home for Thanksgiving and grits her teeth through a family-filled weekend.
In the holiday comedy, Downey Jr. played Claudia's brother Tommy.
Critics agreed that the universal appeal of "Home for the Holidays" also made it an easy target for critique when it came to its uninventive script.
"Neither caustic nor sentimental, it's a film that maybe half the people on Earth have at one time considered writing," Mick LaSalle wrote for the San Francisco Chronicle.
Downey Jr. was interviewed for the documentary "The Outsider" (2005).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 65%
Summary: "The Outsider" is a retrospective look at director James Toback's career and the actors he worked with, including Downey Jr., Harvey Keitel, and Neve Campbell.
Critics called "The Outsider" an interesting look into an unconventional director's filmography, even as its fawning approach edged into the territory of documentary bias.
"As is often the case with Toback's films, even as you're shaking your head at his shameless self-indulgence, you can't help but keep on watching," Elizabeth Weitzman wrote for New York Daily News.
In "Chances Are" (1989), he was Alex Finch.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 67%
Summary: After Corinne (Cybill Shepherd) loses her husband in a car accident, she's amazed when he's reincarnated as her daughter's (Mary Stuart Anderson) boyfriend Alex Finch (Downey Jr.) two decades later.
For some critics, the plot left something to be desired. But there was enough well-placed dialogue and star power to prevent "Chances Are" from fading into obscurity.
"'Chances Are' is hampered from the start by this overworked premise," Jack Garner wrote for Gannett News Service. "The surprise, then, is how the film generates enough charm, romance and humor to overcome the familiarity."
He appeared in the end-credits scene in "The Incredible Hulk" (2008).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 67%
Summary: In the first official movie in the MCU, Bruce Banner (Edward Norton) tries to find a cure for a unique condition he acquired after being exposed to a Gamma bomb as he keeps government agents and supervillains at bay.
Downey Jr. appeared as Tony Stark in an end-credit scene of the film.
Although most MCU films are widely praised by critics today, "The Incredible Hulk" left some critics wanting more.
Tom Charity wrote for CNN, "The climax is a bit of a yawn, but most of what precedes it is vigorous and sharp."
He played James Barris in "A Scanner Darkly" (2006).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 68%
Summary: In a near-future where everyone is under heavy surveillance, undercover cop Bob Arctor (Keanu Reeves) becomes consumed by a new drug and loses his sense of self.
In the film, which was shot digitally and then rotoscoped, Downey Jr. played Bob's friend James Barris.
Critics praised director Richard Linklater's unique vision, even as they admitted that some of "A Scanner Darkly's" ideas came across as half-baked.
"Linklater never pretends that he has all the answers, but he asks the questions in such an interesting, elegant fashion that you'll be glad you came along for the ride," film critic Brian Tallerico wrote.
He originated his role as Holmes in "Sherlock Holmes" (2009).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 69%
Summary: In Guy Ritchie's "Sherlock Holmes," Sherlock (Downey Jr.) and his partner Watson (Law) come across a nefarious plot that could spell danger for the entire country.
Although its script fell short in a few places, "Sherlock Holmes" earned high marks from critics who applauded the decision to cast Downey Jr. as the famous fictional detective.
"Downey, Jr. is the perfect casting choice who manages to bring a somewhat lackluster script to life," Allison Rose wrote for Flick Direct.
Downey Jr. played Robert Merivel in "Restoration" (1995).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 71%
Summary: In this 17th-century drama based on the novel of the same name, King Charles II (Sam Neill) tasks physician Robert Merivel (Downey Jr.) with marrying one of his mistresses (Polly Walker) so that he can keep a close eye on her.
"Restoration" was praised for its energetic cast and lavish settings, even if it didn't win over every critic.
"Despite its flaws, 'Restoration' proves that Hollywood can at times treat history in [a] satisfying manner," wrote critic Dragan Antulov.
He returned as Tony Stark in "Iron Man 2" (2010).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 71%
Summary: After telling the world that he was Iron Man, Tony Stark (Downey Jr.) realizes that he has a target on his back as his father's past comes to haunt him in the form of Ivan Vanko (Mickey Rourke).
Most critics said that "Iron Man 2" wasn't the ideal follow-up to "Iron Man," but they did agree that the film wouldn't be the same without Downey Jr.'s presence.
"The best scenes are still the ones with Downey and Gwyneth Paltrow, or just Downey alone," Rafer Guzman wrote for Newsday.
In "Soapdish" (1991), the actor was David Seton Barnes.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 74%
Summary: On the set of a soap opera, an aspiring actress (Cathy Moriarty) conspires with a TV producer (Downey Jr.) to drive the show's star (Sally Field) insane.
Critics loved the jokes and dialogue at the heart of the comedy, even if "Soapdish" wasn't always narratively cohesive.
"The plot is contrived and this is hardly a believable picture of how a soap opera is made, but at least the gags are mostly funny," critic Mark R. Leeper wrote.
He played Dito in "A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints" (2006).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 76%
Summary: In the drama, Dito (Downey Jr.) returns home to Astoria, Queens, after a 15-year absence to visit his father and face his demons.
Reviewers called "A Guide to Recognizing Your Saints" an engaging coming-of-age story, even if it was rough around the edges.
"Over-indulgent but often interesting and ambitious in its attempt to recreate the free-wheeling, jazz-improvisational feel of classic independent 70s cinema," Peter Bradshaw wrote for The Guardian.
In "Avengers: Age of Ultron" (2015), he played Tony Stark.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 76%
Summary: When Tony (Downey Jr.) creates a peacekeeping program to protect the world from harm, his robotic creation quickly turns against him and the rest of the Avengers as it seeks to eradicate human life.
"Avengers: Age of Ultron" wasn't a favorite Marvel entry by critical standards, but it served as a pleasant distraction.
"Several thrilling action sequences, a great many good jokes, and an unshakable sense that everybody is just going through the paces," wrote film critic Jason Bailey for Flavorwire.
Downey Jr. starred as Stark again in "Iron Man 3" (2013).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 79%
Summary: After the galactic battle in "Avengers" (2012), Tony struggles with newfound trauma as he goes head-to-head with an adversary from his past: Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce).
Critics largely enjoyed director Shane Black's more personal approach to Downey Jr.'s iron-clad superhero in the third franchise installment.
"It tops its predecessors by not actively trying to, and focuses on what actually makes these movies so great in the first place," Jennifer Heaton wrote for Alternative Lens.
Downey played Jerry Renfro in "Bowfinger" (1999).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 81%
Summary: On the verge of bankruptcy, movie producer Bobby Bowfinger (Steve Martin) works on his dream project without telling the star of the picture, Kit Ramsey (Eddie Murphy), that they are secretly filming him.
Downey Jr. played Jerry Renfro, a Universal Pictures executive.
"Bowfinger" bordered on being too silly at times, but most reviewers left the theater smiling.
"Steve Martin is one of the most versatile actors in the business; he is also one of the funniest comics, one of the few capable of making the viewer believe any situation, no matter how far-fetched," Eugene Novikov wrote for Film Blather.
He was Terry Crabtree in "Wonder Boys" (2000).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 81%
Summary: Professor Grady Tripp (Michael Douglas) works on his next novel and juggles an affair with the school chancellor (Frances McDormand) as he becomes an unlikely mentor to his student James (Tobey Maguire).
In the film, Downey Jr. appeared as Grady's editor, Terry Crabtree.
Although the structure of the dark comedy felt unevenly paced, critics said "Wonder Boys" scored high when it came to originality.
"I've never quite seen a movie like 'Wonder Boys,'" Steven Snyder wrote for Zertinet Movies. "It is sometimes self-deprecating, often nostalgic and optimistic, but always slightly mysterious."
In "Tropic Thunder" (2008), he was Kirk Lazarus.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 82%
Summary: In order to capture authentic acting performances, a director (Steve Coogan) drops his actors in the middle of an active war zone without telling his cast what's going on.
Starring alongside Ben Stiller, Jack Black, and Brandon T. Jackson, Downey Jr. played a method actor who went too immersive for a role.
By satirizing Hollywood from every angle, the comedy produced big laughs with critics as it toed the line between comedy and controversy.
"'Tropic Thunder' exaggerates on its eccentricity, but it's always dealt with a sense of satirical truth," Kelechi Ehenulo wrote for Set the Tape.
He was Tony Stark in "Avengers: Infinity War" (2018).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 85%
Summary: As Thanos (Josh Brolin) collects powerful infinity stones and threatens to destroy half of the universe, Tony (Downey Jr.) and his fellow Avengers do everything they can to stop him.
"Avengers: Infinity War" shocked and captivated most critics, even though it had a ton of characters and storylines to juggle.
"'Infinity War' didn't wear me down in the way that 'Age of Ultron' did, it didn't give me the high of the first 'Avengers' either," Anupama Chopra wrote for Film Companion. "Like I said, manage expectations and you'll be just fine."
Downey Jr. played Derek Lutz in "Back to School" (1986).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 86%
Summary: In this 1980s comedy, Thornton Melon (Rodney Dangerfield) attends college with his son Jason (Keith Gordon) so that they can grow closer and he can get the experience he never had.
Downey Jr. had a supporting role as Jason's roommate, Derek Lutz.
With Dangerfield at the helm, the comedy "Back to School" rose above viewer expectations.
"This Rodney Dangerfield vehicle is a lot better than it should be," Kim Newman wrote for Empire Magazine.
In "Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang" (2005), the actor starred as Harry Lockhart.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 86%
Summary: Criminal-turned-actor Harry Lockhart (Downey Jr.) finds himself in the middle of a murder case as he reconnects with his childhood sweetheart (Michelle Monaghan) in the Hollywood hills.
Infused with director Shane Black's dry wit, "Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang" was praised as an energetic and unexpected dark comedy.
"Despite all the blood and gore, [it] ends up being a remarkably good-natured and surprisingly moralistic little film," Robert Julian wrote for the Bay Area Reporter.
He appeared as Marvin in "Chef" (2014).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 87%
Summary: When a restaurant critic rips his food apart, chef Carl Casper (Jon Favreau) quits his job so that he can make the food he's always dreamed of.
Downey Jr. had a cameo appearance as Marvin, the ex-husband of Carl's wife's (Sofía Vergara).
Critics said "Chef" was the movie equivalent of well-made comfort food.
"The result is a small, unashamedly feel-good film that makes up for what it lacks in dramatic jeopardy with gentle comedy, heartwarming family scenes, ladles of food porn, and time spent among characters you like," Laurence Phelan wrote for the Independent.
He played Paul Avery in "Zodiac" (2007).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%
Summary: Based on a true story, in 1969, a political cartoonist (Jake Gyllenhaal) becomes obsessed with solving the encrypted notes left by the infamous Zodiac killer, as the case draws the attention of Inspector Dave Toschi (Mark Ruffalo) and crime reporter Paul Avery (Downey Jr.).
Reviewers said "Zodiac" served as a showcase of David Fincher's talents as a director and the masterclass acting of his cast.
"Downey Jr is perfect as the alcoholic wastrel of a crime reporter Paul Avery, as is Mark Raffalo as the dependable cop David," Namrata Joshi wrote for Outlook.
In "Captain America: Civil War" (2016), Tony tried to keep the Avengers from falling apart.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 90%
Summary: When political pressure builds to keep superheroes under government regulation, Steve Rogers (Chris Evans) and Tony (Downey Jr.) find themselves at odds in a fight that could mark the end of the Avengers.
Fun and fine-tuned, critics agreed that "Captain America: Civil War" was proof that Marvel had its formula down pat.
"'Captain America: Civil War' proves that Marvel knows how to lay down a stunning foundation in order to detail an epic saga," Aramide Tinubu wrote for Shadow and Act.
The actor returned as Tony in "The Avengers" (2012).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%
Summary: To prevent Loki (Tom Hiddleston) from unleashing aliens on Earth, Tony (Downey Jr.), Steve (Evans), Bruce Banner (Ruffalo), Thor (Chris Hemsworth), and Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson) come together to battle their mutual enemy.
Critics were wowed by "The Avengers" and praised Marvel's efforts to weave a compelling story brimming with beloved comic book characters.
"'The Avengers' is as close as you can get to a quintessential blockbuster experience," Siddhant Adlakha wrote for Slashfilm.
Downey Jr. had a bizarre cameo in "The Nice Guys" (2016).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 91%
Summary: Set in the 1970s, the dark buddy comedy "The Nice Guys" follows a struggling private eye (Ryan Gosling) and an enforcer-for-hire (Russell Crowe) as they try to hunt down a young woman named Amelia (Margaret Qualley) who has mysteriously disappeared. But the unlikely duo quickly learn there are more dangerous people who are also trying to track Amelia down.
Downey Jr. had an unusual uncredited cameo in the film as a dead guy with a beard.
Overall, critics enjoyed the comedy and its script.
"Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe are a good match in The Nice Guys. But writer-director Shane Black's screenplay seldom strikes fire," wrote Nigel Andrews for the Financial Times.
Downey Jr. had a supporting role in "Spider-Man: Homecoming" (2017).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 92%
Summary: With Tony (Downey Jr.) as his mentor, Peter Parker (Tom Holland) grapples with the newfound responsibility of being an Avenger as he returns to his neighborhood in Queens.
Critics called "Spider-Man: Homecoming" a breath of fresh air in the long-running Marvel franchise.
"The youthful vibe of this character reset, with its sense of humor and its light touch, makes 'Spider-Man: Homecoming' one of the most enjoyable Marvel movies in years," Roxana Hadadi wrote for Chesapeake Family Magazine.
He played Joe Wershba in "Good Night, and Good Luck" (2005).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 93%
Summary: Fred Friendly (George Clooney) and Edward R. Murrow (David Strathairn) attempt to expose the corruption behind Senator Joseph McCarthy's anti-communist campaign in the 1950s.
Critics praised the film — which was based on a true story — for its thoughtful approach to humanity, even if it bent the boundaries of historical accuracy.
"In terms of historical content, the film is neither quite honest nor quite true," Zadie Smith wrote. "That's a shame, because it's a great film."
"Avengers: Endgame" (2019) had Downey Jr. returning as Tony Stark/Iron Man.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%
Summary: After being defeated by Thanos in "Avengers: Infinity War" Tony (Downey Jr.) and his fellow Avengers concoct a plan to rewind time and save the universe.
Despite its long runtime, critics couldn't get enough of "Avengers: Endgame."
"The only complaint about 'Avengers: Endgame' is that it raises the bar so high that there may well never be a superhero movie to match it," Matthew Norman wrote for the London Evening Standard.
He made his big debut as Tony Stark in "Iron Man" (2008).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%
Summary: During a weapons demonstration, wealthy genius Tony Stark (Downey Jr.) is captured and nearly killed by the same terrorist group that benefits from his war profiteering. As he engineers a super-powered suit to help him help people in need, Tony changes for the better.
Critics welcomed "Iron Man" as a fitting vehicle for Downey Jr. and a strong foundational entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
"Led by Downey's career-resurrecting performance as billionaire weapons peddler Tony Stark, it proves just as indispensable to the movie's giddy escapist appeal as the seamless CGI effects and eye-popping pyrotechnics," Craig Outhier wrote for The Orange County Register.
Downey Jr. can briefly be spotted in "Baby, It's You" (1983).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%
Summary: Set in 1960s New Jersey, "Baby It's You" follows an Italian Catholic aspiring lounge singer (Vincent Spano) and Jewish high-school girl (Rosanna Arquette) as they fall in love.
Downey Jr. appears briefly in the background of the romantic drama, which critics largely praised.
"With its dark realism, rock 'n' roll delirium, and gutsy humor, Baby, It's You builds up to the mythic resonance of the finest American coming-of-age films," Carol Flake wrote for Vanity Fair.
The actor played Louis Strauss in "Oppenheimer" (2023).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 94%
Summary: The World War II film follows the story of Lt. Leslie Groves Jr. (Matt Damon) hiring physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer (Cillian Murphy) to work to build and later detonate the first atomic bomb in history under the Manhattan Project.
Downey Jr. appeared in the film as Louis Strauss.
The blockbuster mostly lived up to its hype, with critics praising its story and actors.
"Thanks to Nolan and Murphy, we see the full Oppenheimer — neither monster nor savior, victim nor villain, but in the end, just a man," Max Weiss wrote for Baltimore magazine.
In "Short Cuts" (1993), the actor played Bill Bush.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 95%
Summary: In eight short stories set throughout Los Angeles, "Short Cuts" explores the lives of 22 characters as they deal with themes of death and infidelity.
Downey Jr. appeared in one of the story lines as Bill Bush.
"Short Cuts" earned high praise from critics for its clever writing and strong vision.
"From the exhilarating opening, you know Altman's epic 'adaptation' of eight stories and a poem by Raymond Carver is going to be special," critic Geoff Andrew wrote for Time Out.
Downey Jr. was Lord Rivers in "Richard III" (1995).
Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%
Summary: In this adaptation of William Shakespeare's play, Richard (Ian McKellen) plots to usurp the British throne in the 1930s.
Downey Jr. appeared as Lord Rivers, the brother of Queen Elizabeth (Bening).
Critics praised the stellar ensemble cast and production quality of "Richard III."
Angie Errigo called it a "rigorous adaptation of the notoriously 'difficult' play," in her review for Empire Magazine.
He played Roger Baron in "True Believer" (1989), his highest-rated film.
Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%
Summary: In this crime drama based on a book by Eric Hoffer, a cynical defense lawyer (James Woods) is convinced by a young law graduate (Downey Jr.) to take on an 8-year-old murder case.
Packed with emotional acting and a compelling central story, "True Believer" blew critics away.
"One of the best courtroom dramas ever made, and a movie that almost nobody knows about," wrote critic Blake Davis. "A terrific picture."
Note: All scores were current on the date of publication and are subject to change. Films without critical scores were not included.
Correction: July 24, 2023 — An earlier version of this story misstated the actor who plays Claudia in "Home for the Holidays." It was Holly Hunter, not Jodie Foster.
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