Doctor and renowned surgeon, Stephen Strange, unexpectedly takes a turn for the worst and gets into a car accident, rendering his every aching ability to use his hands to perform the many medical phenomenons he did in the past. With this premise, Marvel's most recent comic-book movie comes to the screen as a different sort of a movie than previous superhero movies, with an emphasis on science, medicine, and the supernatural. He dauntlessly looks for traditional medicine techniques and causes himself to go bankrupt in order to find a cure. He stumbles upon an enclave that gives him hope and new life, full of possibilities and the unknown.
Benedict Cumberbatch, who plays Dr. Stephen Strange, really emphasizes the arrogance and ingratitude of Strange before the accident, but soon realizes he doesn't know everything in the world. What makes him the most interesting is that Marvel and its creators highlight the flaws of Strange, rather than focus on his impervious feats and makes it a more realistic feat, as he acquires them slowly compared to others on his journey.
Also, the conscious choice of Strange leaving the fame and fortune of his previous life to fight the dark forces and evil really draws me closer to his emotions and mentality in the movie, making it more believable. Unlike superheroes that turn overnight, there is a process and growing aspect to Strange's progression and the aspect of science versus the mythical also drew me closer to the movie. The visuals and special effects of Dr. Strange creates an "Inception" and Harry Potter feel into the movie, making it all the more enjoyable to the audience and giving an appreciation of how long it probably takes for the visual effects team to create this, particularly in urban settings as well, as the movie showcased Hong Kong, London, and New York City.
I probably will have to watch the action sequences again to really appreciate the depth, scope, and attention to detail during these scenes, as well as the scenes encompassing the sanctuaries that the protagonists must protect against the forces of the dark realm. The subtle humor in place of popular cultural and "Avengers" jokes also made this movie have a comedic presence. The feat of the marvel studio capturing the complexity and intensity of the visually stunning comic book came alive to the screen. This is really a movie that everyone should see on the big screen, even IMAX. Overall, 9 sorcerers out of 10.
