With or without Robert Downey Jr., "Iron Man 4" could be in a tough position if its proposed 2020 release date is given the green light.
According to new reports, the MCU movie could suffer when it goes head-to-head with DC Extended Universe's "Batman" slated to be released on the same year. While Tony Stark has already proven his worth in the three previous movies, it could have competition in DC's new take on "Batman."
"With the upcoming release of 'Batman vs. Superman: Dawn of Justice' this coming March 25, the complexion of the superhero movie genre would certainly change and while no one would like to admit or dare say it at this time, the DC Extended Universe is expected to give the Marvel Cinematic Universe an excellent run for the money," Master Herald reported.
"By the time 2020 comes, it is most likely that the annual dose of Iron Man may have already worn thin the character among fans and a new offering like a refreshed Batman would be most welcome."
Meanwhile, Downey Jr.'s indecision to come back could actually be more beneficial to Marvel if rumors of a reboot are true. It was previously suggested through the scandalous Sony hack that the franchise could start a new story with different actors.
"Question for you both: One day soon we will be rebooting the Iron Man franchise with new actors," Marvel's Alan Fine said in a leaked email addressed to Tom Cohen and Kevin Feige. "In that reboot would you change the events of the first trilogy? E.g. Obadiah becomes a true father figure to Tony, Pepper gets jealous and she becomes the one that gets him thrown out of the company and tries to kill him for walking away from defense contracts?"
"Pepper Potts falls in love with a caucasian Rhodey instead of Tony? It's almost like setting up an alternate universe to the first trilogy. You guys are not seeing this?"
Whether or not the studio is still considering an "Iron Man" reboot is still unknown.
Stay tuned for more "Iron Man 4" MCU updates here!