If it wasn't for the visuals...

Rating: 7/10 (29 April 2018)

This would be a 5-6/10 max.
First of all, I had already sworn off watching Marvel movies because I found them to be ridiculously similar. Same general plot, same structure, same pacing, same jokes, same fights (especially those get boring quite fast).
But Doctor Strange promised to be different and visually inspiring.
As far as the visuals go, 100% yes. They're really creative, interesting and next level, actually, they kinda define the film, which is why I am happy to rate the film higher than it should be, just because it was more than visually appealing to watch.
In terms of being different, well, kinda.
I really liked where things were going in the beginning (spirituality, astral projection, calming the mind, healing body through soul) because these are all real phenomena, even though wildly different from how they're portrayed in the movie, obviously.
But Cumberbatch, who is a very fitting Doctor Strange, hardly changes during the entire film. I would have loved to see a more dramatic character arch. It was said that he should connect with his soul and let go of his huge ego in order to gain these powers. Well, he gained all sorts of powers but didn't seem to connect to his soul or let go of his huge ego. He still appeared pretty awkward after what one could call his awakening.
Big negative is the villain(s). Felt no connection at all towards them. Didn't care at all about them. Marvel really needs to up their villain game.
Over all it was entertaining to watch, especially because of amazing visuals and the eastern influences, but I would not watch it again.