Totally worth your time(but with some flaws)

Rating: 8/10 (20 November 2016)

Doctor Strange (the 14th entry to the MCU) is the origin story of the Marvel character...Doctor Strange(obviously). Dr Steven Strange is an arrogant neurosurgeon who will immerse himself in the world of mystic arts hoping to cure his hands which have paralyzed after a car accident. Before I talk about the details, I want to say that the movie is definitely good, with some interesting strengths, but some weaknesses as well. I strongly suggest that you watch it in the cinema or a big screen(40+ inches) to fully experience its spectacle (3D is recommended). I haven't read any of his comics, so I will judge it clearly as a movie, not as a comic adaption.
Let's begin with the visual effects, because it is the easiest part. They are seriously good, like Oscar-nomination worthy. I don't think I exaggerate. Not a second will you feel like you are watching something fake. And this is, of course, an accomplishment given the extraordinary(Inception-like and even more impressing, I dare to say!) scenes you will witness. They make up the most of the action, which is breathtaking and probably the strongest aspect of this movie. But it's not only about the cool-looking battles, the story is also pretty good. It has the basic structure of Iron Man but the "mystic arts" factor is what makes it unique. I will talk again about the story, because here lies the major problem about the movie. As far as the characters are concerned, they are all pretty likable. Steven Strange is the intelligent arrogant guy with humor that eventually changes his mind and uses his intelligence for the greater good. And, of course, Benedict Cumberbatch is really good at this role. He plays arrogant guys all the time. I also liked Rachel McAdams' character as Strange's love interest. Not necessarily an important character, but because of her, some really funny moments occur so it's always fun to watch these two together. Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One plays well her role, although I did expect more from her as a character. You see, in movies where the protagonist learns some sort of a new art, we as viewers usually create a bond with the teacher/master along with the protagonist. For me it was a little disappointing to realize that her character was not so developed. Mads Mikkelsen as Kaecilius was not particularly great but above the average Marvel villain. He is not the "muahaha I want to destroy everything because I am bad" type of villain. He just does what he thinks it's right and you can understand his motives. He is menacing and poses a threat even for the Ancient One. We don't really get to know him well and that's why he is not a remarkable villain. All the other characters like Wong and Mordo are good as well and often contribute to the comic relief of the movie. Now, let's talk again about the story and focus on the pacing, which was the biggest weakness of Doctor Strange. The problem is that it never takes its time in order for us to get to know something or someone well or introduce in depth this new world. Do you remember in Harry Potter some scenes in Hogwarts' classrooms where we are taught along with the characters about various spells, creatures etc? Those scenes help us immerse in the world of the movie. Doctor Strange lacks such scenes. It always feels like the director introduces us to a new important about the plot element and then moves on quickly to the next one, so that Steven Strange transforms from a neurosurgeon to the Mystic arts master of the comics as soon as possible. Personally, I would like ten more minutes dedicated to the introduction of the mystic arts world. In my opinion, it would make certain characters more likable and the whole theory about mystic arts more believable.
However, Doctor Strange is still a fun movie with lots of incredible reality bending sequences, an interesting main character, humor and a clever ending. (8/10)