A Stunning Marvel Film that Stands on its Own,

Rating: 9/10 (2 November 2016)

Doctor Strange is a terrific movie with a very well developed plot and an outstanding cast. I was a bit skeptical about this movie at first, as it was another origin story, something I feel I have seen plenty of that could never escape being formulaic, but Strange actually did. The character forms in to his superhero persona in ways completely different from the likes of Batman or Spider-Man, leading to some visually stunning sequences, thus creating a character that really does stand out from other heroes.
The film did, however, seem to go out of its way to be complex. I understand that it is deeper, more layered material than some of Marvel's previous comic adaptations, but I felt the mystic arts, multiverses, time paradoxes, etc. could have been dumbed down for the audience more. As well as that, they probably could have left certain elements of what Strange can control out of this movie, so that they could dive deeper in to some and save the others for future sequels.
The cast is what brings any movie together and that is no exception here. Benedict Cumberbatch shines in the title role, he truly transforms himself in this character, using his classically trained acting to bring class in to the Marvel universe. He is joined by a stellar supporting cast that includes a strong Chiwetel Ejiofor, a vulnerable Rachel McAdams, a sinister Mads Mikkelsen, an encapsulating Benedict Wong and an intriguing Tilda Swinton, each performance is dedicated and the chemistry between each individual pair is pure.
It manages to take a typical set up, a regular man gains superhuman abilities, and makes it its own thing, not feeling like its borrowing from any previous superhero film, and stands on its own, you really would not have to have seen any other Marvel film to enjoy this. Action packed, well acted and intense, Doctor Strange is yet another hit for the studio, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a good adventure or fantasy film.
After losing function of his arms, a successful surgeon becomes a trainee in the mystic arts.
Best Performance: Benedict Cumberbatch