Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer’s Infamous Kiss: The Wild Story Behind a Cult Christmas Classic

Some film scenes become unforgettable thanks to the spark between actors, while others stand out for the wild stories that happen when the cameras stop rolling. That’s exactly what went down with Robert Downey Jr. and Val Kilmer during the making of Shane Black’s offbeat crime comedy Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. Their infamous kissing scene in the 2005 movie didn’t just make audiences laugh—it sparked a running joke that Downey Jr. would never let Kilmer live down.

Behind the Scenes: A Kiss to Remember

What’s now a cult favorite holiday flick features a brief but memorable kiss between the two stars. While fans found the moment hilarious, Downey Jr. claimed it left him with a lasting impression—mostly because of Kilmer’s so-called “jackal breath.” In a playful interview, Kilmer teased,

I loved it. He complained, complained, complained.

Downey Jr. fired back,

He smelled like the breath of a jackal. I don’t know why he saved jackal breath for our kissing scene.

Their banter turned a simple scene into a legendary behind-the-scenes story, with Kilmer loving every minute and Downey Jr. milking the joke for all it was worth.

Val Kilmer’s Take: Praise and Playfulness

While Downey Jr. often poked fun at the awkwardness, Kilmer had nothing but good things to say about the experience. He openly joked about how much he enjoyed the moment and never quite understood why Downey Jr. made such a fuss. For Kilmer, the scene was just plain fun.

He even told an interviewer he’d gladly do it again, but only if Downey Jr. was his scene partner. Comparing his on-screen kisses, Kilmer said,

I don’t know how I’d feel about having an actual relationship – separate from Robert. I think it’s got to be Robert or no one. It’s gonna be in my contract. You know, the only other guy I’ve kissed was Colin Farrell, and Robert was … better.

Colin’s sloppy. Well no, not sloppy – but he’s not a giver. He really did [slip in the tongue]. And there was some groping too. He looks like a groper, doesn’t he?

For Kilmer, the whole thing was a highlight, turning what could have been an awkward moment into a story fans still love to hear about.

Why Kiss Kiss Bang Bang Is a Holiday Favorite

Moving past the famous kiss, it’s worth asking: what makes Shane Black’s neo- noir comedy such a perfect pick for the holidays? Set in sun-soaked Los Angeles, the movie doesn’t look like your typical Christmas film. But that’s exactly what sets it apart.

The story follows Harry Lockhart, a small-time crook who stumbles into a murder mystery during the holiday season. With Christmas lights, music, and a heavy dose of irony, the film uses the festive backdrop to highlight its dark humor and offbeat charm. The contrast between the cheery decorations and the gritty story gives the movie its unique holiday vibe.

With a cast led by Downey Jr., Kilmer, and Michelle Monaghan, and a sharp script from Shane Black, Kiss Kiss Bang Bang has earned its place as a quirky Christmas classic. The film’s blend of crime, comedy, and holiday spirit keeps fans coming back year after year.

Cast, Crew, and Where to Watch

Kiss Kiss Bang Bang stars Robert Downey Jr., Val Kilmer, Michelle Monaghan, Dash Mihok, and Corbin Bensen. Directed by Shane Black, the film runs 1 hour and 43 minutes and holds an 86% score on Rotten Tomatoes. If you’re in the mood for something different this holiday season, you can rent or buy it on Prime Video and Apple TV.