Doctor Strange

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Doctor Strange is the newest Marvel movie. It is directed by Scott Derrickson and stars Benedict Cumberbatch, Rachel McAdams, Tilda Swinton, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Mads Mikkelsen. Stephen Strange (played excellently by Cumberbacth, who also bears some resemblance to the character) is an acclaimed and arrogant neurosurgeon who loses the use of his hands when he gets in a car wreck. His search for a cure leads him to the mystical Ancient One (played with an excellent level of otherworldly enigma by Tilda Swinton). Right off the bat, we are struck with a visually outstanding action sequence. That is one of the highest compliments I want to pay to Doctor Strange. The action sequences in this movie are unlike the action scenes in any other movie within the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The story itself isn’t the most original. It’s just kind of your standard hero’s journey. Granted, it’s still told in a way that keeps you invested in what’s happening on-screen. Mads Mikkelsen plays the movie’s villain, Kaecilius. Mikkelsen himself gives a strong performance, as he typically does. However, Kaecilius as a character proves to have little to do, isn’t much more than another generic Marvel villain. The comedic elements of the movie can be hit-and-miss. For every joke or quip that does land, another one doesn’t. Is Doctor Strange one of Marvel’s absolute greatest efforts? The pacing of the movie is a little clunky at times, as well. What I mean is that you don’t really get a good idea of exactly how long Strange’s training takes, even if training is fairly interesting to watch. No, it isn’t. The movie has its flaws and shortcomings. But, the ride is still a fun mind-trip of a movie that comes recommended, especially if you get the chance to see the movie in theaters.

7 / 10