While the DC Extended Universe has released two duds in 2016, Marvel Studios continues to churn out one solid blockbuster after another. Marking its 14th installment, _Doctor Strange_ is the latest addition to the never-ending Marvel Cinematic Universe and the first one directed by Scott Derrickson.
Anyone who brings preconceived critiques of Marvel or superhero movies in general will be unlikely to be converted by _Doctor Strange_ with its fair share of bad one-liners and a cliched narrative. But those who still enjoy Marvel films will surely enjoy its newest origin story that boasts mind-bending effects and surprisingly effective storytelling. For better or worse, _Doctor Strange_ is a top-five Marvel movie.
When renowned neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) crashes his Lamborghini and suffers permanent nerve damage, he is faced with the possibility of never being able to operate again. Unable to accept his new reality, Strange participates in numerous experimental procedures. Having exhausted all other options, he spends his last funds traveling to Nepal to find an alternative treatment at a mystical temple. Under the tutelage of Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and the temple’s revered leader The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), Strange learns to bend reality and ultimately inherits more responsibility than he initially desired.
The origins of the titular neurosurgeon are a little over-handed and rushed at the film’s beginning. A tightly written script devotes about 15 minutes to Strange’s backstory, forcing Cumberbatch to do his best Robert Downey Jr. impression while he flaunts his mental superiority and ostracizes his loved ones. Although this successfully sets up Strange’s character arc, it does no favors to his romantic interest, Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams).
McAdams and Ejiofor both give strong performances in their limited capacities, which makes it all the more frustrating that the two talented actors are reduced to secondary characters.
Personal complaints aside, _Doctor Strange_ thrills and entertains from the moment the titular hero arrives in Nepal. As Strange becomes indoctrinated in mysticism, audiences become enraptured in his new life. From the monks’ philosophy, lore and magic to Strange’s mundane conversations with them, the time spent at the temple is utterly spellbinding, aided by the remarkable Tilda Swinton.
Yet the newest Marvel origin story continuously improves throughout. The second act offers a villain with motives and ambitions that are far more enticing than simple world domination, as played by Mads Mikkelsen, and a well-earned, satisfying character arc in which Strange truly grows.
None of this even begins to mention just how mesmerizing the effects are, rivaling those of _Inception_. Where it would be easy to dismiss the bending of space and time as absurd, the visual realization of Strange’s adventures is beautifully compelling and grounded. Characters are bound by just enough physics and gravity that it suspends disbelief as buildings bend and interdimensional portals open. The visuals are just stunning enough that they may merit the few extra dollars necessary for a 3-D viewing.
In terms of narrative, _Doctor Strange_ is fairly isolated from the rest of the MCU. Mirroring its peers only in tone, _Doctor Strange_ was given enough room to breathe by Marvel’s creative minds and excel as its own independent film in both style and narrative.
_Doctor Strange_ might not be quite good enough to withstand the criticisms of Marvel’s detractors. But avid fans and casual moviegoers alike will surely be enthralled by its dazzling, innovative effects and fulfilling narrative.
**MOVE gives _Doctor Strange_ 3.5 out of 5 stars.**