Why Jon Favreau Leaving Iron Man 3 Could Work

In 2006, Jon Favreau was hired to direct Iron Man. Many people felt that he would not be able to film a big budget action film given prior experience with films such as Elf and Made. Then he casted Robert Downey Jr as Tony Stark. Many people didn't know if he had chose the right person, given Downey Jr's limited appearance's in action movies as well as his past drug addiction. Then, the film came out in 2008...

Many of us (including myself) felt that the film was a perfect example of how to make a comic book movie; stay close to the origins and the spirit of the comic while being creative and original, as well as casting the right people for the job. Everyone couldn't wait for the sequel. Then, the film came out in 2010...

The reviews for Iron Man 2 were mixed at best. Many felt that it was a huge let down, while many felt that it was just as good as the first. The love for Jon Favreau quickly disappeared in some. But, then others believed that it wasn't Favreau's fault, but more Marvel's and Justin Theroux's (the screenwriter). Just as steam started on Iron Man 3, Favreau was dropped as director.

It's safe to say that many people were pissed at that news. Some called bullshit, but it was confirmed. Well, in my honest opinion, this could work. I in no way think that they should have dropped Favreau. He's a great filmmaker and I can't wait for Cowboys and Aliens. But, it seems to me that the whole problem with this is similar to the Edward Norton scenario. Norton had disagreements with Marvel over how The Incredible Hulk was finished and eventually was dropped from The Avengers. Then, Favreau had disagreements with Marvel over Iron Man 2 and, so, he was dropped from Iron Man 3. Well, here's how this could work...

I see comic book movies as comics. A new director and writer is simply a new writer and artist. With a new director and writer, we can get a fresh, new take on Iron Man, just like the many runs he has had. Another way you can look at this is by looking at it like the James Bond franchise. New directors and writer's are hired every time a film is made. No one complains about that (unless they choose a bad director).

With Favreau gone, we are now open to an array of directors. His films will always be remembered and we have them to look back on, but maybe it is time for a new person to give us a new vision. Now as to who can do that? I have a few choices...

Brad Bird- A great director that is becoming more involved with live-action.
Joseph Kosinski- Directed Tron: Legacy and has a good relationship with Disney.
J.J Abrams- A fan favorite director for ANY comic book movie.
Neill Blomkamp- Directed District 9. Nuff said.
Guy Ritchie- Directed RDJ in Sherlock Holmes and it's sequel.
McG- Has shown with Terminator that he can direct action very well.

Any of these choices fancy you?

Tell me what you think in the comments below. ;)