Scarlett Johansson brought her sexy back -- literally -- to Wednesday's world premiere of The Avengers, thanks to a sizzling black Versace dress.

The 27-year-old was joined by her co-stars, including Jeremy Renner, Tom Hiddleston, Chris Hemsworth, Mark Ruffalo, Chris Evans and Colbie Smulders. Robert Downey Jr. and his wife Susan arrived in style, driving Tony Stark's $9 million Acura, complete with the license plate, Stark33.

Fans of the popular Marvel characters have been patiently counting down the days until the film's opening day, which is less than three weeks away.

Johansson reprises her role as the Black Widow (Natasha Romanoff), as does Downey Jr. (Iron Man), Evans (Captain America), Hemsworth (Thor), Hiddleston (Loki) and Samuel L. Jackson (Nick Fury).

She's really the first female superhero . . . there's a huge rich background for me to kind of pick from and play with and layer, Johansson told The Hollywood Reporter on Wednesday.

Joss [Whedon] and I were very conscious, very aware that she had this huge following. And why is that? Because she's this very multi-dimensional, enigmatic character to play, she added.

Smulders, Renner and Ruffalo are newcomers to the franchise, playing S.H.I.E.L.D. Agent Maria Hill, Hawkeye and Hulk, respectively.

The Avengers, directed by Joss Whedon (who also provided the screenplay), opens in theaters May 4.

Click through for photos from the film's world premiere in Hollywood.