"IRON MAN" (2008):

 The launch of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) kicked off with "Iron Man," directed by Jon Favreau. This solo film introduces the charismatic Tony Stark (Robert Downey Jr.), a genius inventor turned superhero. With its blend of humor, high-tech action, and a standout performance from Downey Jr., "Iron Man" laid the foundation for the interconnected universe that followed.