By: Sam Martini ~Staff Writer~
Fans received another addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe last week with Doctor Strange.
The film follows Benedict Cumberbatch as Dr. Stephen Strange and his journey to becoming one with the magical world around him. This film is definitely one of the standouts of the year and is entertaining in all forms of the word.
One of the biggest problems when introducing a new hero to a previously established landscape is the origin story. Doctor Strange does a fantastic job of introducing our character’s story while pulling us into this world with little to no dragging. This is quite the feat for such a character, and the world that comes with him.
Benedict Cumberbatch as Dr. Stephen Strange is maybe the greatest casting decision from Marvel since Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man. Slipping into a flawless American accent to enter the role, Cumberbatch brings a particular arrogance to the role that the character demands, truly making him a fantastic addition to this universe.
Western movies influenced by other cultures are often accused of “white washing.” This movie is no exception, being heavily influence by eastern culture. Initially, Tilda Swinton’s role as The Ancient One was believed to be victim of “white washing,” but upon seeing the film many have reversed their opinions.
The character she plays is from Asian descent in the comics, and has been for many years, but nothing about the character demands it be this way, proving this is Swinton’s fantastic performance. This shows off a badass physicality, as well as a higher knowledge of the world being introduced in the film.
Possibly the best performance in this movie comes from Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo. Ejiofor opens up a considerable ‘one note’ role, and turns him into a fantastic character, and leaves you wanting more. The disbelief portrayed in his eyes in various scenes is truly astonishing.
The visuals in Doctor Strange are an experience in and of themselves. The film captures the kaleidoscope feel of its comic book counterpart amazingly, while bringing an Inception-esque style as well. If there is one particular reason to see this movie, it would be the visuals.
Doctor Strange is a fantastic film with great performances, stunning visuals, and an original story. I look forward to what happens in its aftermath both within the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and our own world.
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