"You think you know how the world works? You think this material Universe is all there is?
But what if I told you, the reality you know is one of many?"
Tilda Swinton words to Steven Strange could just as well been directed towards us. Up until this point, the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been primarily driven by futuristic technology and beings from distant galaxies: nordic gods, ancient alien civilizations, super titans bent on collecting pretty colored marbles, etc. With the introduction of The Ancient One—the Sorcerer Supreme—and later Dr. Strange, we're being shown a part of the universe that has to do with various dimensions, realities, and multiverses.
Oh, and of course, magic. All of which are exceptionally important in setting the tone for the two part Infinity Wars.
But let's cut to the chase, is the movie worth watching?
"Doctor Strange" did not have the deepest plot. The build up was too fast and there was a very distant attachment to the characters. We definitely care about them, but not to the extent where we'd do more than send a post card. You should always feel a bit more for the protagonist, but the grandiose nature of the film really prevented that.
The casting, despite controversy, was stellar. Tilda Swinton was meant to play the Ancient One, the role was a perfect fit, unlike her role as an half-angel Gabriel in "Constantine". Another perfect fit was Benedict Cumberbatch, who was basically playing Sherlock the whole time. Steven Strange as a character is similar to Gregory House, Sherlock Holmes, and Tony Stark. Gifted, intelligent, and terribly narcissistic. Great performance.
The primarily reason to watch "Doctor Strange" would have to be the visuals. Oh is it a masterpiece. Inception on an acid trip. The movie was like staring into a kaliedoscope. The depiction of distant universes, realities, EVERYTHING, was just fantastic.
The other is that it really gets you thinking. Dr. Strange is wonderful brain food. The movie even has philosophical plugs, Nietzche's Eternal Reccurence being one of them.
If you enjoy the characters like House, Holmes, or Stark, definitely watch the movie. If you like Inception and the Marvel Universe, watch the movie. If you don't have anything better to do this weekend, watch the movie.
A check up every now and then doesn't hurt, so go see "Doctor Strange," you most likely won't be disappointed. Can't judge a book by it's cover.
For this book, the warnings strangely come at the end.
