Required Viewing for Medics

Rating: 8/10 (8 December 2016)

If films based on comic book characters are new to you, and you aren't quite sure what to expect with Doctor Strange, don't worry. Besides the fine acting of Benedict Cumberbatch, who is at the top of his game here, the viewer is treated to fun, quantum-leap style physics, and amazing, cutting-edge CGI that actually makes you think. Magic, of course, is what drives it, in the form of slide rings and ancient formulae. But that isn't why you should watch this. It's really a character study of how a man reacts to a life-changing event. The event is a problem in modern guise, but its solution is ancient.
There are some excellent performances from supporting members of the cast – Chiwetel Ejiofor in particular, and also Tilda Swinton, who always manages to surprise, and Benedict Wong. But the main focus is on Cumberbatch's arrogant, controlling surgeon – who hasn't met at least one doctor like this?