Trippy vibes, dude!
Hear ye hear ye, thy fellow peasants. Marvel is back and demands your undivided attention as they take us through a multi-dimensional journey into a world of magic within the MCU in DOCTOR STRANGE. Introduced to the world in the 60s (which explains its psychedelic appeal), the story of this unique hero encompasses the world of Mystic Arts Mastery and its ever-so-complex realm. Therefore, setting forth a twisted, new, mystifying display of unseen action in any Marvel flick before.
The narrative follows world-famous neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), whose life changes drastically after a horrific car accident that diminishes use of his hands. When traditional meds fall flat, he’s obliged to look for healing with dreadful hope in an unlikely place full of mystery known as Kamar-Taj, located in Nepal. Quickly, Strange starts to pick up that this is not just an odd “rehab center,” but the front line of battle against unseen dark forces hellbent on the destruction of current reality. Spearheaded by The Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), along with devout followers Bordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and Wong (Benedict Wong), complicated options and scenarios arise. Before long, Strange (fully equipped with newly acquired, magical abilities) is forced to choose between returning back to his life of fortune and arrogant status, or leave it behind for the greater good of the world as the most powerful sorcerer in existence.
The result would best be described as, ‘WOW!’ Adapted and given the modern day quintessential, blockbuster allure, sure, the story itself may carry along its cliché narrative tropes we’re all too familiar with when it comes to Marvel flicks, but who cares? That’s what we love most about them. The ability they have to not only carry on with a fantastic story, but making us part of a much bigger picture. One that goes in many different directions, especially with DOCTOR STRANGE as it plays along with many different portals, emotions, and overall scope beyond what we think we may know about sciences of the mind.
There aren’t enough words to describe how beautifully engaging DOCTOR STRANGE is. I’ve mentioned more than once Marvel can do no wrong – and that’s an understatement. Never has the world of Eastern philosophy and spiritual beliefs, science, interconnected worlds and mystical arts seemed so cool. Complex (if I may say), but cool. This flick is a hybrid between INCEPTION and THE MATRIX series, only raging a lot more on creative roids! Visually delicious and well-structured, a hero I was aware of, but knew very little about, DOCTOR STRANGE sits on a throne of his own among MCU all stars. Its contemporary treatment elevates its value as well. Spot on casting allows it to glow as it plays along to a narrative that makes it one of the most unique entries in the MCU to date. Benedict Cumberbatch has solidified himself as a true action hero. One I’m glad we’ll be seeing again.
As usual, its inevitable post credit scenes (2 of them) sets up a sequel, and an upcoming flick that… Well, let’s just say we’ll be seeing a lot more of Strange! Overall, if I had to describe DOCTOR STRANGE, I’d say the following: it’s bold, freaky, hallucinogenic and extremely strange (No pun)
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Grade: A / Genre: Sci-Fi, Action-Adventure, Mystery / Rated: PG-13 / Run Time: 2:10
Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Benedict Wong, Michael Stuhlbarg, Benjamin Bratt, Scott Adkins, Mads Mikkelsen, and Tilda Swinton
Directed by: Scott Derrickson
© Marvel Studios 2016
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