Doctor Strange (Review)

Marvel’s Dr. Strange has been one of the most successful films in the franchise to date, grossing $744.7 million since its release on Nov. 4. As far as the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) is concerned, Dr. Strange was certainly the most out-there film so far, with alternate dimensions, mirror realms, and trippy visuals throughout the movie.

Perhaps the most cerebral movie of the franchise as well, Dr. Strange follows the journey of the titular character in his quest to heal his hands after they are destroyed in a car accident. Spending every resource, the quest leads him to Nepal where he is trained in mysticism.

Overall, the narrative structure of the film is well paced and well plotted, though it’s not without some faults. Rather than remain balanced and thoughtful, as required by the mystical focus of the film, the pacing goes off the rail, rendering the film little more than a brightly colored action movie once the last act begins.

For diehard fans of Dr. Strange, the movie certainly brings out the best of the character, but for those expecting the villain, Dormammu, to be more impressive, the lackluster approach to the demon may be less satisfying. Comic fans will still enjoy the film, but it is in no way perfect.

Still, for what the movie sought to do in bringing the larger multiverse of the Marvel worlds to the film series, Dr. Strange does not disappoint. For anyone who has yet to see the movie, go in prepared for the balance of humor and high stakes that we’ve all come to expect from the MCU.