Robert Downey Jr. Jokes About ‘Avengers’ and ‘Dune 3’ Box Office Clash
Marvel fans and sci-fi enthusiasts are gearing up for a huge box office showdown on December 18, 2026. That’s the day Marvel’s Avengers: Doomsday, starring Robert Downey Jr., hits theaters, the exact same day as Warner Bros.’ Dune: Part Three, starring Timothée Chalamet. Fans are already buzzing about which film will dominate the holiday weekend, and Robert Downey Jr. recently addressed the clash with his usual charm and humor.
During a Q&A in Los Angeles for Timothée Chalamet’s new film Marty Supreme on January 14, 2026, Downey Jr. was asked about the box office battle. Instead of turning it into tension, he made a joke.
Leaning into his Tony Stark persona, he said the day has already been nicknamed “Dunesday.” He told the crowd, “We both have films opening on December 18th, and we decided to coin a name for it. We’re thinking ‘DUNESDAY.’” The comment immediately won laughs and showed that Marvel is taking the competition lightly.
Robert Downey Jr. and Timothée Chalamet talk about ‘AVENGERS: DOOMSDAY’ and ‘DUNE: PART 3’ releasing on the same day:
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 15, 2026
“We both have films opening on December 18, we decided to coin a name for it… We’re thinking ‘DUNESDAY.’” pic.twitter.com/1yXiRegyWE
While Avengers: Doomsday is expected to have the edge on opening weekend thanks to Marvel’s loyal fan base, returning characters like Chris Evans’ Captain America, and appearances from the X-Men, Dune: Part Three could find long-term success. Analysts suggest that while Dune might start slow at the box office, it could gain momentum over time and even pick up awards recognition, much like how Oppenheimer initially lost to Barbie at the box office in 2023 but later earned major accolades.
Both films are directed by acclaimed directors. Avengers: Doomsday is helmed by Joe and Anthony Russo, while Denis Villeneuve returns for Dune: Part Three. Fans are already dividing into camps, excited to see superheroes face off against sandworms in what’s shaping up to be one of the most anticipated December weekends in recent cinema history.
The big question now is whether Dune: Part Three can hold its own against Marvel’s blockbuster, or if Avengers: Doomsday will claim the box office crown. Only time will tell, but with excitement building, December 18 is shaping up to be a cinematic showdown that movie fans won’t want to miss.
This kind of box office clash is thrilling for audiences. It’s fun to see two massive franchises release on the same day and gives moviegoers a real choice. Personally, I think Avengers: Doomsday might dominate initially, but Dune: Part Three could shine in awards season and grow in popularity over time. What do you think—will you be Team Avengers or Team Dune? Share your thoughts in the comments.
