Enjoyable except poor direction.

Rating: 7/10 (12 February 2017)

A good chunk of positive elements, especially visual. The twisting landscapes were new and exciting (even though were done in Inception). Especially the chase in the middle, which was balanced and flowed well, despite a demanding visual requirement.
The performances were not really demanding but were well served by a slew of very good actors.
Writing was a bit better than the regular Marvel fare (Captain America the exception). The metaphysical element were simply defined and accessible, by and large. It was a bit complicated at times but I assumed the benefit of the doubt. I don't think the time loop at the end worked very well. Clunkly.
Was disappointed with Scott Derrickson's direction. Thought several instances of detail and artistry were missed. Despite the chases being very good, the actual fight scenes were quite poor. American cinema, and especially Marvel movies, have a habit of making the combat vague and confusing with a shaky camera. This was the case here, plus 20%.
Additionally, disappointed with the lack of conflict with the first half, despite the fact that it was heavy with conflict in the 2nd. Somewhat called for a slow start but still felt antsy, even though it did have the pending threat of Mads Mikkelsen's bad guy at the front.
In the end, Strange's arc was convincing and effective. Didn't care for Chiwetel Ejiofor's turn to a bad guy at the end. Too much by-the-numbers and sudden.