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Doctor Strange (2016) Movie Review

 “We never lose our demons, Mordo. We only learn to live above them.”

The Ancient One

Abracadabra!!! Wait wait… that isn’t what the real magicians say? Looks like they don’t in ‘Doctor Strange’. 😂jokes aside, ‘Doctor Strange’ is one of those MCU movies that delivers an experience that can perhaps best be described as magical. Possibly one of the most underrated and underappreciated films of the MCU, ‘Doctor Strange’ is a gem of storytelling and a major milestone for the MCU. So let’s talk about the highlights of this movie!

Our protagonist is Doctor Stephen Strange, played by the brilliant Benedict Cumberbatch, who shines in this movie. He goes from arrogant, revered neurosurgeon to the protector of the Earth as Sorcerer Supreme in a very compelling story arc. Tilda Swinton has some great scenes as The Ancient One too.

One nitpick I have, not really a flaw, is that the characterization could have been better for the different characters because apart from a few leading characters, there is not much given nor shown about the other sorcerers in the movie, both good guys and bad guys included, which feels a little like a shame, considering that they’re all sorcerers, and could potentially have such good stories about themselves had the film-makers gone that route. Throwing in a few other characters into the mix would have given Strange an even wider perspective and more mentors, allies and enemies to interact with. The main antagonist, Kaecillius, is not a very good one and very forgettable (😑 why does the MCU struggle with good antagonists in so many of their movies!)

The movie has a good story that ties into the larger MCU. It dosen’t have any boring moments and feels longer than it actually is, as it’s under two hours long! I didn’t even realize that. The movie does a very good job with compressing it’s story while at the same time, not failing to deliver a good story. It has a fantastic score, one that I have listened to numerous times. The visual effects are some of the best ever shown in a comic-book movie and probably the best highlight of the film. I mean, just look at the trailer if you haven’t seen the film yet, you’ll believe me! The final act of the movie is nearly perfect. Watching it, you’ll have gotten more than you bargained for! (fans know what I am talking about 😂)

The movie deals primarily with the theme of action, consequence, seeing the bigger picture and also the impermanence (or permanence?) of time. Yes, time plays a big role. When all pass, time still remains, and when time passes, none remain. This last line is just my weird philosophy. I’m just spouting nonsense. 🤣🤣But yes, time itself is a player in the film. These ideas carry on into the later MCU films with Doctor Strange in it. All in all, ‘Doctor Strange’ is a terrific watch, and some of the best the MCU has made.

8.5/10

Doctor Strange (2016) Movie Review