...I would not call that a movie that "bombed"
Then you don't know what constitutes a bomb in the eyes of the studio execs.
If it doesn't make at least double the budget in the US release alone, then it is a bomb.
The only exceptions from their standpoint are the small-gross, tailor-made, Oscar-bait films.
There is no way that a) Downey is going to agree to doing an ensemble picture as a bit player after headlining 2+ Iron Man movies, or b) That the studio is going to spring for the big money it would take to hire him, just for an ensemble role in a risky new franchise.
When you say Downey would not do a bit-player role, you make an unwarranted assumption that there will be an Iron Man 3. Don't be so sure of that. Judging by the trailers for Iron Man 2, it is going to suck ass, big time. If so, IM 3 will be shit-canned and the studio will be more than happy to throw Downey into an ensemble role to recoup some of the outlay.
'94 Saturn
Survived the sunlight just fine
It sure sounds it.
*ducks*
Not true. It survived the sunlight, but not the owner.
So you think that money is the root of all evil. Have you ever asked what is the root of money? -- Ayn Rand