As the new addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Doctor Strange felt like it’s not an MCU film. A friend reasoned, “Because there were little to no collateral damage done.” And it’s probably true. He also said, “Even the jokes are not so Marvel-y.” But surely, the jokes and quips to Benedict Wong’s character was ridiculously funny. (“Just Wong?” Cumberbatch’s character asked. “Like Adele? Aristotle? P!nk? Eminem?”) But perhaps, it played to the film’s advantage as it became this one independent film that’s, though, molded by the same hands and same pattern, still manages to be different—a breath of fresh air. If the prior film Captain America: Civil War taught us anything, it’s that civilian collateral damage should be avoided (Team Captain, but the Concord had some definite sense.) And while most of MCU films capitalize on the heart-pounding fight scenes, Doctor Strange used its astonishing visual effects to wow the audience and make us want more. Lastly, the story of the film solely depended on magic, not technology. As I mentioned, diverting from the usual formula of an MCU film was for the good and it made Doctor Strange an even more irresistible treat.
Cumberbatch portrayed the arrogant-neurosurgeon-turned-Master-protecting-multiverses remarkably, but he was still Sherlock. It’s probably not because he’s completely typecast as a conceited, intelligent character, but because his character lacked characterization, as a friend pointed out. And it’s true. He’s almost indistinguishable from Sherlock (well, of course, Doctor Strange didn’t have the accent) and from Tony Stark. But still, seeing Cumberbatch with the cloak, the Eye, and the white streaks about his ear, I was glad that he was Doctor Strange. But most remarkable was Tilda Swinton’s character The Ancient One. Despite the criticisms and the controversy caused by her casting as the Asian sorcerer, Swinton still managed to portray the character spectacularly. She was unforgettable. (But yeah, still, whitewashing is definitely not cool.)
Other Points:
- Mads Mikkelsen's character was a delightful addition. Though I was not particularly fond of his character which already shared the same formula as previous villains (a man brainwashed by a much bigger threat with visions of paradise and/or power, making them believe that they're fighting for the greater good), it's still Mikkelsen's portrayal that made Kaecillius compelling.
With its outstanding ensemble, anchored by its almost dizzying but still playful visual effects, Doctor Strange is a breath of fresh air for those already tired of the same MCU formula and also a great addition to the growing list of unforgettable films,
Overall Rating: 8/10
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