From genius, billionaire, playboy, philanthropist, superhero Tony Stark in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Robert Downey Jr. is ready to add another title to his resume: doctor who can communicate with animals. Downey is set to star in the still-unnamed "Doctor Dolittle" project; however, it was recently reported that the release date of the said movie has been moved to an earlier slot
According to Deadline, Universal Pictures has moved Downey's "Doctor Dolittle" release date from May 24, 2019 to April 12. The movie would've been up against Disney's "Star Wars: Episode IX," which is opening around the same time.
Little is known about the project so far, but it was previously known as "The Voyage of Doctor Dolittle." The movie is based on the "enduring tales imagined by Hugh Lofting." Academy Award-winning director Stephen Gaghan has been tapped to helm the film. Gaghan wrote the latest draft of the screenplay from an earlier draft written by Tom Shepherd.
Downey is playing the titular character, which was previously played by Eddie Murphy in "Dr. Doolittle" and "Dr. Doolittle 2." Downey's retelling, however, is said to be more in line with the 1967 "Doctor Dolittle" musical starring Rex Harrison, Screen Rant reported.
If such is the case, RDJ is perfect for the role given his experience in comedy and playing charming yet odd characters, such as in the "Sherlock Holmes" movies.
Meanwhile, Downey is currently filming "Avengers: Infinity War" and "Avengers 4" back to back. The two-part movie event is said to be one of the most expensive movies ever made. Marvel is reportedly allotting $1 billion for the movies, $400 million of which will go to the salaries of actors, screenwriters, directors, and producers. However, Downey is reportedly expected to be paid $200 million for reprising his role as Iron Man/Tony Stark in both films.
"Avengers: Infinity War" will bring back the core Avengers film, and will feature most of the actors in the MCU including Benedict Cumberbatch, Tom Hiddleston, Chris Pratt, Tom Holland and more.
Aside from "Avengers" and "Doctor Dolittle," Downey is also expected to work on a third "Sherlock Holmes" movie although no filming date has been confirmed.