Studio Hopes for Series with Downey, Jr. as Sherlock Holmes

Actor Robert Downey, Jr., who experienced a comeback over the summer with his leading role in Iron Man, will play investigator Sherlock Holmes in what Warner Brothers studios hopes will become its next big franchise, according to Reuters.

The actor credits his Iron Man role, which brought in $570 million in global ticket sales, for landing him the role as Sherlock Holmes.

"In case you aren't aware I had a hell of a summer, and it's made me much more viable to play a lead role than I might have (been) in the past," Downey, Jr. told London reporters.

The 43-year-old actor was also confident he would give the best portrayal out of the numerous film and television versions.

"Clearly I'm going to do it better than it's ever been done," Downey, Jr. joked.

"The more I read about it the more overwhelmed I was by the weight of it and the amount of people who will be watching to see if it's gotten right."

The film will be directed by Guy Ritchie and produced by Joel Silver. Ritchie said the film totes the biggest budget he's worked with, though Silver would not disclose an amount, only saying the budget was "healthy."

The movie is tentatively scheduled for release in 2010.