Doctor Strange

Doctor Strange (2016)

Directed by Scott Derrickson

Based on the characters created by Steve Ditko, Stan Lee

Screenplay by John Spaihts, C. Robert Cargill, Scott Derrickson

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Mads Mikkelsen, Tilda Swinton

After a tragic accident, neurosurgeon Stephen Strange embarks on a quest to be healed. This search soon leads him into the world of mystic arts.

This film is yet another installment in the Marvel cinematic universe. This one is based on a comic book series created by Steve Ditko (Spider-Man) and Stan Lee (Ant-Man). The film was directed by Scott Derrickson (Devil’s Knot). The screenplay was written by Derrickson, along with C. Robert Cargill (Sinister) and John Spaihts (Prometheus). The film stars Benedict Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game), Chiwetel Ejiofor (The Martian), and Rachel McAdams (Midnight in Paris). Mads Mikkelsen (Casino Royale) and Tilda Swinton (The Grand Budapest Hotel) are also featured.

This film is based on the character created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko, originally introduced in July of 1963. The story follows an arrogant neurosurgeon on his journey of physical recovery and personal discovery. The premise is very interesting, and the movie doesn’t waste a lot of time getting things moving. There are some predictable moments throughout this one, but nothing that really hurts the overall experience. The writing does a good job of following the transformation of Stephen Strange. The writing creates all the emotional peaks and valleys that are important to the main character. The writing also provides a great villain and a number of nice moments of conflict. These moments include some great action sequences and nice twists. The screenplay creates a very fun story that fits right in with the rest of the Marvel universe.

The acting in this one is very good. Benedict Cumberbatch was a great choice to play the egotistical Dr. Stephen Strange. His performance follows the unique transformation of his character that pays off nicely in the end. He also made the most of the small comedic moments built into the script. Rachel McAdams also does a good job in this one. Her performance works nicely as the opposite personality of Dr. Strange.

Chiwetel Ejiofor and Tilda Swinton also add good performances to the mix in this one. Mads Mikkelsen was an excellent choice to play Kaecilius, the main antagonist of the film. His energetic and emotional performance really adds a nice depth to the emotion of the film. The remainder of the cast all do a good job in their roles in the movie.

This one looks really good. The story created a great opportunity for the visual effects teams to run wild. The CGI work is incredible throughout the movie. The cinematography also plays into the overall visual success. The film also features nice work from all other areas of the production. Overall this is a solid film with a lot to offer. Fans of comic book movies should make sure to check this one out. I would also suggest this one to fans of the stars in the film. I give this one 4 out of 5 stars.

Rating: PG-13

Running Time: 115 Minutes