Stunning Visuals, rehashed story

Rating: 5/10 (6 July 2017)

Doctor Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) is a witty and somewhat arrogant genius neurosurgeon who has it all, until a car accident destroys his hands. No one and nothing in Western medicine can improve Strange's condition, so he sets off on a journey to the mystical East, where The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), opens the gates to worlds and powers that Strange did not know existed. These powers come handy when Strange has to face off with Mads Mikkelson's disgruntled Kaecillius in a mirror world, where anything and everything can be manipulated.
Doctor Strange isn't a bad movie but as far as originality, the origin story is there but the overall concept appears to have been done. Everything occurs at a random pace and mainly wondering as to how he wanted to become this sorcerer simply from wanting to have his hands heal. The character reminded of Iron Man but here he is more unlikable and appears to think he is more superior to everyone else (though he does tone down his arrogance as the film passes). The comedy in the film is filled with little subtle jokes that could have been wiped out, no need for pop culture references for laughs and giggles. The movie felt in every way too simple and predictable and that Dr. Strange was never in any real danger. Not much suspense or thrills which the trailers showed, and the villain wasn't menacing or threatening enough. Although the ending was quite satisfying but obvious. Doctor Strange feels like a mash up of either Batman Begins or Prince of Persia, Inception and Harry Potter. We hope the sequel is more entertaining and overall satisfying.