The Doctor is in...real in

Rating: 10/10 (10 November 2016)

Doctor Strange is another Marvel superhero I've heard of, but am largely unfamiliar. However, given the studios recent track record, the intriguing trailers, and Benedict Cumberbatch in the starring role, I've been salivating in anticipation of seeing this film.
WARNING: Anyone prone to or sensitive to motion sickness may want to forgo seeing this in 3D (especially IMAX 3D) or at least pop a Dramamine prior to viewing.
First things, first. The visual effects in this movie are simply amazing and lend themselves to IMAX 3D if you can handle it. I'll say they're along the lines of Inception although I haven't actually watched that movie. I admit, the opening sequence gave me a little tummy trouble, but fortunately I soon adapted and was able to submerge myself and enjoy the film. The idea of a new twist on reality takes new meaning and boggles the mind.
Secondly, the cast is perfect.
Tilda Swinton as The Ancient One? What a badass and a delight to watch. She's one of those actors I normally don't think of until I happen to see her in something, then can't be more thrilled with her performance.
Mads Mikkelsen, still gives me chills from his take as Hannibal Lecter from the defunct NBC series Hannibal and again delivers as our baddie Kaecilius. Brilliant, talented, but oh so misguided. Looking forward to seeing him in Rogue One.
Ahhh, Benedict Cumberbatch. I count myself among the Cumber...well I'll go with Collective for the sake of this review and my fandom just went up another notch with his portrayal of the title character, Dr. Stephen Strange. Brilliant, egotistical, talented, and let's face it a bit of an a-hole, Cumberbatch's journey from the top of the world/his profession to the lowest depths of the gutter is a roller coaster of emotion and a pure joy to watch unfold. The man was born to play this part.
Third, the writing. Once again the folks at Marvel have created a dramatic, engaging, action packed, funny three dimensional story that just also happens to have the fantastical elements of magic and superheroes. This is one of those films if you lose the fantasy elements actually still works as a story. So, even if you aren't a fanboy/fangirl of comics and superheroes the story resonates and you will enjoy. And if you are a fanboy/girl you'll enjoy the ride even more.
I've got to go all in on this M.C. Escheresque thrill ride and give this one an around the world and back snap. A ten in my book. Don't wait, definitely see this one on the big screen, IMAX 3D if you can.
One last word of CAUTION: STAY until the very end of the credits. As is Marvel's modus operandi there are not one, but two additional scenes in the closing credits. Don't gyp yourself by missing them.