Today in 2008 saw the release of Iron Man (2008). After the success of other comic-inspired films, like the Spider-Man (2002) and X-Men (2000) franchises, Marvel decided to throw their hat into the movie ring for the first time. Iron Man was a massive critical and commercial success and kicked off the multi-billion dollar Marvel Cinematic Universe. It also re-invigorated the career of star Robert Downey, Jr, whose past addiction problems had been very public over the years.   Image credit: movieposter.com