Doctor Strange is Marvel’s first proper dive into the world of mystic arts. The first 10 minutes of Doctor Strange is so beyond anything previous MCU movies would be able to accommodate. Instantly, we get our first look at the ‘big bad’, something that other superhero films lack. We certainly aren’t left wondering whether or not another villain will be added later on in the film, or if this is it. 

 

The first fight scene between Kaecilius and his Dark Magic using goons vs Tilda Swinton’s fantastic Ancient One. Of course, they weren’t going to kill off a crucial part of the story in the opening scene, so the Ancient One gets one up on Mads Mikkelsen, folding buildings into each other and making New York a literal origami creation. 

 

Others have made the same connection before, but just to reiterate, the film has very strong Inception vibes, almost as if you’d expect Leonardo Di Caprio and his spinning top to make an appearance. 

 

Watching Doctor Strange is what I’d imagine the world to look like if reality decided to tear itself apart one day. By the time you’ve caught your breath, you instantly know that Marvel are onto something special here. Never before have we seen something as vastly confusingly beautiful as Doctor Strange. This film is very deserving of an award for best visual effects.

 

The cast is fantastic. Despite Benedict using an American accent over his extremely strong English tone, there isn’t a single complaint on his translation. Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo was an amazing choice, and although he isn’t the most energetic character on screen, his portrayal was incredible. Benedict Wong, as Wong, was definitely the comedic relief side of the film. Rachel McAdams finally got cast in the MCU, and all I can say is I hope she makes a return. Doctor Strange isn’t Marvel’s best movie by a long shot, however, it’s a solid addition to the MCU and certainly up there with one of the most unusual superhero movies of all time. 

 

Pushing aside the new visuals, the movie follows the same Marvel movie journey we’re used to seeing with each release. Although some people say they’d like for them to try something new, I feel with the complete change in visuals, a different story outline wouldn’t make it an enjoyable Marvel film. Instead, I’d get the opinion the fan reaction would be a mixed bag. Some who could understand the confusing concept, some who couldn’t.

 

Overall, Doctor Strange is a fantastic addition to the ever growing MCU, and introduces a character that will no doubt introduce many many others.