Terrence Howard is one of the most underrated aspects of the entire franchise. Howard brought a level of charisma and charm to the role that was unmatched by any of the other actors who have played the character since.
However, Howard's time as Iron Man was short-lived, as he was replaced by Robert Downey Jr. after the first movie. This was due to a variety of factors, including creative differences between Howard and the studio, and the actor's well-publicized personal problems.
Despite this, Howard's brief tenure as Iron Man is still worth celebrating. Here are five reasons why Terrence Howard was the best Iron Man.
1. Howard Had the Best Chemistry with Gwyneth Paltrow
There's no denying that Robert Downey Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow have great chemistry on-screen, but it's worth noting that their chemistry was not always there. In fact, Paltrow has said that she was initially not a fan of Downey Jr., and it took some time for them to develop a rapport.
In contrast, Howard and Paltrow had great chemistry from the start. This was evident in their scenes together, which crackled with an easy chemistry that was sorely lacking in the scenes between Downey Jr. and Paltrow.
2. Howard Brought a Sense of Humor to the Role
One of the most important aspects of Iron Man's character is his sense of humor, and Howard perfectly captured this aspect of the character. Downey Jr. may be known for his comedic chops, but Howard was actually the better comedian in the role.
3. Howard Had the Better Action Scenes
This may be a controversial opinion, but hear me out. Yes, Downey Jr. has been in some great action scenes as Iron Man, but Howard was actually the better actor in the action sequences.
This is because Howard brought a sense of weight and gravity to the role that Downey Jr. often lacks. Downey Jr. often seems to be winking at the camera in his action scenes, but Howard played it straight, making for some truly intense and believable action sequences.
4. Howard Made Iron Man's Origin Story More believable
One of the biggest problems with Iron Man's origin story is that it's just too far-fetched. A billionaire playboy who builds a suit of armor and becomes a superhero? It's just too much to believe.
However, Howard made the origin story more believable. He brought a sense of realism to the role that Downey Jr. just couldn't match.
5. Howard Was a Better Iron Man Than Downey Jr.
This is the most controversial point on this list, but it's one that I firmly believe. Howard was a better Iron Man than Downey Jr. He had the better chemistry with Paltrow, he was a better comedian, and he made the origin story more believable.
Downey Jr. is a great actor, and he's done a great job as Iron Man, but Howard was the better actor in the role.