'Death is what gives life meaning. To know your days are numbered. Your time is short.'

Rating: 8/10 (28 March 2017)

Death is what gives life meaning. To know your days are numbered. Your time is short. Another MARVEL comic book has entered the very crowded space for superheroes and CGI dominance - this time it is DOCTOR STRANGE and the combination of fantasy and special effects and very fine script writing and a superb cast (directed by co-author Scott Derrickson) is a winner.
Or as the PR states, Marvel's "Doctor Strange" follows the story of the talented neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) who, after a tragic car accident leaving his talented hands useless, must put ego aside and learn the secrets of a hidden world of mysticism and alternate dimensions in a lace in Katmandu called Kamar-Taj in search of a cure, but instead discovers the mystical arts and becomes a powerful sorcerer battling dark forces bent on destroying our reality. Based in New York City's Greenwich Village, Doctor Strange must act as an intermediary between the real world and what lies beyond, utilizing a vast array of metaphysical abilities and artifacts to protect the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Leaving his female interest (Rachel McAdams) he encounters a fellow traveler Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor), Wong (Benedict Wong), the evil Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelson), and the true star of the film The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton). The special effects enhance the story as well as any fantasy movie around, but it is the wry sense of humor as well as the intelligence of Benedict Cumberbatch that makes the film a welcome addition to the Marvel Comics spectrum. The Ending with a brief conversation between Doctor Strange and Thor (Chris Hemsworth) assures us this is a 'to be continued' series.
Even for those fatigued by the overkill of Marvel Comics films, this one is an infusion of fresh air. Grady Harp, March 17