Robert Downey Jr. is taking on a new role in the upcoming HBO espionage thriller, The Sympathizer. Directed by the acclaimed Korean filmmaker Park Chan-Wook, the series is an adaptation of Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name. The story revolves around a half-French, half-Vietnamese spy, known as Captain, who continues his espionage work during the Vietnam War while seeking refuge in the U.S.
Leading the cast is Hoa Xuande, portraying the conflicted mole torn between two worlds. Adding to the intrigue of the series, Robert Downey Jr., best known for his role as Iron Man, takes on multiple supporting roles. The most notable of these is that of a gritty, underground CIA agent who becomes Captain's boss after his escape to Los Angeles.
Recently, Max released teaser images and a sneak peek of The Sympathizer, offering a glimpse into the show's atmosphere set in the '70s. The images reveal a nearly unrecognizable Downey Jr., sporting a ginger, curly wig and a receding hairline, reflecting the character's undercover nature.
The teaser provides a taste of the thrilling action that awaits viewers. On the surface, Captain appears to be assimilating into American culture, but his true allegiance is to the Communist cause. As he asserts in the footage, 'I infiltrated the enemy. I did everything to undermine them because I am a Communist undercover.' Meanwhile, Downey Jr.'s CIA agent character recruits Captain, and they embark on a mission of counterintelligence. The trailer alludes to political events, with Xuande's character observing and collecting evidence, maneuvering through this dangerous web of deception.
Last year, another teaser was released, featuring a clip of Captain being interrogated while in disguise, donning a blonde wig. The transformation of Downey Jr. for this role is nothing short of impressive.
The Sympathizer, shot in late 2022 and early 2023, also features Sandra Oh as part of the cast. Downey Jr., in addition to his acting role, serves as an executive producer for the series. He shared a playful video on Instagram during production, showcasing his two younger children, Avri and Exton, shaving his head in preparation for the project.
Mark your calendars for April 12, when The Sympathizer premieres on Max. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in this gripping tale of espionage, loyalty, and undercover agents set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War.
