1. The Iron Men
Actually, as of not to long ago, it totally did influence Hollywood's decision making. When Jon Favreau left the director's chair of the Iron Man franchise (and, depending on who you ask, Marvel's creative stable altogether), the speculation as to who would fill the vacancy ran rampant. Initially, Shane Black was announced to be writing the script of the film, and why not? With Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, Black's darkly comic tendencies tracked well with Robert Downey Jr.'s deadpan delivery and comedic timing. Shortly after that announcement, it was announced that Black would be pulling double duty and writing as well as directing. Say what you will about the first two films, it has to be admitted that this was the best choice for the franchise to go forward. They knocked it out of the park with Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, and if the first Iron Man 3 trailer is any indication, we're in for a hell of a ride come May 2013. So there you have it: the story of a pulp detective novel, being paid tribute to by an excellent comedy/thriller, and ultimately winding up as the savior of one of Hollywood's fledgling modern franchises. It's a story only a detective would buy. (Speaking of buying, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang is now
painfully affordable on
Blu-Ray and
DVD. I'm sure if enough of us bought it though, it'll be re-released in a wildly overpriced edition with a fake thumb USB drive and actual Special Features. Vote with your wallet, kids.)