It's strange to think that there was a time when the key roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe hadn't yet been cast. Actors such as Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson, and Chris Hemsworth seem so perfect for their roles that it's hard to think of other actors who could play them as well. But of course, these iconic roles were not just handed to these now world-famous actors. A new video has been released that shows footage of Downey Jr's screentest for Tony Stark in 2008's Iron Man.

　　The video can be found as part of the bonus content on the upcoming digital release of Avengers: Endgame. In the clip, Iron Man director Jon Favreau states that Downey Jr. was already an acclaimed actor, but alludes to the fact that the movies he was best known for at that stage were not huge blockbusters. So Downey Jr had to audition for the role--and the rest is history. Check out the video below, via Fandango:

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　　Now Playing: Avengers: Endgame Trailer Breakdown!

　　What's the number of love you would give for Robert Downey Jr's decade-long performance as #IronMan? Watch his audition tape before he landed the iconic role! #AvengersEndgame can be pre-ordered to own now! Available July 30 on digital via FandangoNOW: https://t.co/PXAquXLuFa pic.twitter.com/eBoGC3szuy

　　— Fandango (@Fandango) July 16, 2019

　　Avengers: Endgame releases digitally in July 30 and on Blu-ray on August 13. Other bonus content includes an audio commentary from directors Anthony and Joe Russo and writers Christopher Markus and Stephen McFeely, six deleted scenes, and a gag reel. The digital edition also includes a featurette that explores Steve Rogers' controversial decision at the end of the movie. Check out full details of the Avengers: Endgame home release here.

　　Earlier this week it was reported that Endgame is very close to becoming the most successful movie of all time. James Cameron's Avatar has held that record for nearly a decade, with a $2.78 billion gross. But Endgame has made $2.788 billion at the worldwide box office since its release in April, and is now just $7.16 million away from claiming the record.

　　Marvel returns to San Diego Comic-Con this week. The studio was absent from the convention in 2018, but will feature prominently this year. The big Marvel event takes place in Hall H on Saturday night. It is described as an "an inside look at the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe," will feature Marvel Studios boss Kevin Feige, plus "surprise panelists." While details are currently underwraps, it is thought likely that news of the studio's future release slate, which potentially includes movies such as Black Widow and The Eternals, will finally be revealed. SDCC also marks the first stop on the Russo Brothers' We Love You 3000 promotional tour.

　　For more on Marvel at Comic-Con, check out GameSpot's guide to all the Marvel panels and events at SDCC so far.