Doctor Strange

The pleasures of Marvel’s Doctor Strange are, first and foremost, visual. Here is a movie of incredible images and bizarre sights. In comparison to its mind-boggling special-effects sequences, the movie’s characters sometimes feel a little flat and generic. I sometimes found myself wanting the characters to stop talking so they could take us on another wild trip through the multiverse.

You’ve seen Doctor Strange. You’ve read our spoiler-free Doctor Strange review. Now you’re ready to go deeper. Like Stephen Strange himself, you’re ready for ultimate knowledge. All you know is a wise Celtic mystic to touch you on the forehead and open your “eye.”

How many interviews does it take to land a gig directing a Marvel movie?

It seems like whenever a new blockbuster comes out, it’s on the cutting edge of movie technology. Just this month we had the premiere of Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk, filmed on 120-frames-per-second cameras, advertised as Ang Lee’s most realistic-looking movie yet. Doctor Strange is also attempting to get into the innovation game, with an IMAX 3D version of the film that, according to the stars, makes it feel like you’re actually there watching skyscrapers kaleidoscoping around you.

While domestic critics and international audiences have already been treated to their first screenings of Doctor Strange, many of us  —  myself included  —  are still waiting for our chance to see the movie in theaters. That means we’re still glued to our computer screens for every new photo, video, or audio clip that comes to mind. And that means we get excited over the silliest things. I mean, did you listen to that track from the Doctor Strange score? That theme song is amazing!

Doctor Strange hits theaters next week, introducing Benedict Cumberbatch’s Sorcerer Supreme to the Marvel Cinematic Universe — along with some mysticism and a handful of otherworldly dimensions (and their threats). Ahead of the film’s release date, we learned that Cumberbatch will reprise his role for Avengers: Infinity War, and according to the actor, he might just be the thing that helps get the team back together following the events of Civil War.

It’s almost impossible for filmmakers and executives to discuss sequel ideas without name-dropping Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight (the same goes for discussing reboots / origin stories without citing Batman Begins). Such is the case with director Scott Derrickson, who was recently asked about his ideas for a potential sequel to Doctor Strange. Unsurprisingly, he referenced The Dark Knight — though not entirely without merit.

The most common knock against Marvel’s cinematic universe: All their movies look the same. In a mega-franchise spanning 14 films and counting, that look can get pretty stale. For the most part, these movies about bravery are pretty timid when it comes to visual storytelling.

SNL had a taxing October with a full four hosts for Season 42, but November will get really Strange. Benedict Cumberbatch himself will host the first November SNL, the very weekend that Marvel’s Doctor Strange hits theaters.

The Doctor Strange trailer debuted on Jimmy Kimmel Live! back in April, so it’s only fitting the late-night host would get more exclusive access to the latest Marvel hero. And by “exclusive,” we don’t exactly mean “hire the Sorcerer Supreme for children’s birthday parties,” but well, here we are.