'Iron Man 4' release date, updates, rumors: 'Doctor Strange' affecting RDJ movie's release?

(Facebook / Iron Man)Is "Iron Man 4" affected by the hype for "Doctor Strange?"

Robert Downey Jr. is still the man despite Marvel's failure to include "Iron Man 4" in the lineup for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's (MCU) Phase Three films. However, it seems that the arrival of "Doctor Strange" into the MCU is affecting the decision of higher-ups to produce the fourth installment in the actor's hit franchise.

Benedict Cumberbatch's mystical film has so far received positive reviews from critics who have gotten a hold of the movie first-hand before it gets released next month in the United States. How will this affect the announcement for "Iron Man 4?"

Recent reports suggest that "Doctor Strange" may be the next big thing after "Iron Man" took over the superhero madness when the first installment was released, and this could largely affect Marvel's plans for "Iron Man 4."

While RDJ's Tony Stark will remain a titular role in history, Cumberbatch's Stephen Strange has opened the doors for the weird side of Marvel to be appreciated on the big screens. There is a lot of hype for "Doctor Strange" and it seems that the excitement over "Iron Man 4" is now being overpowered by the mysteries of the MCU's dark side.

Even with the rumors that Riri Williams will take over the "Iron Man" suit, it appears that this is not enough reason for viewers to bring back the excitement they once had for the franchise, especially if RDJ will no longer be the indomitable hero behind the suit.

Meanwhile, there are also reports suggesting that RDJ's recent meeting with Tom Holland, Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige, and several other notable names could have something to do with the fourth movie. However, RDJ's Twitter post that revealed the team is discussing about a "new project" does not really say anything about "Iron Man 4."

The actor's Tony Stark is also expected to appear in Holland's "Spider-Man: Homecoming" and this could be another reason why the stand-alone installment won't be happening anytime soon.

Will fans still see "Iron Man 4" after all the hype for "Doctor Strange" and other superhero films in the lineup?

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