Log in / Sign up
 
    Share this page

    Doctor Strange

    Reviewed by
    adamwatchesmovies@

    I missed out the first time I saw “Doctor Strange” because I didn’t go see it in 3D. I’ve rectified that mistake. Not only did it make for a better experience, as I was able to fully immerse myself in the eye-popping visuals, but I actually came to like the film better the second time around. There are a lot of little details that I picked up this time that made me appreciate the quality of the writing and the character development.

    After a career-ending car accident, Doctor Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) is desperate. Every type of surgery and remedy to repair his damaged hands has failed. The neurosurgeon turns to a temple in Nepal and an enigmatic woman named the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) Strange learns that she can do a lot more than repairs his hands; she can teach him about the realms beyond our own and transform him into a sorcerer.

    There are some elements of familiarity to this story. Like “Iron Man”, “Green Arrow”, “Spider-Man” or “Green Lantern”, our protagonist is a big shot who is humbled, gets superpowers and winds up in a colorful outfit, battling the forces of evil. If you’re going to criticize the film about something, it’s this. For me, it’s not an issue. I got what I expected out of a "Doctor Strange" film. It follows the source material faithfully and captures the spirit of the comics while updating some elements that were dated and streamlining the whole thing.

    What makes the picture stand out from the rest of the superhero origins is the quality of the writing. While Strange is reminiscent of Tony Stark and Cumberbatch, while very good in the role, is not an immediate favorite like Robert Downey Jr. was, there’s a lot of good stuff here. Strange is not quite charismatic, as he always keeps his own interests at the top of the list, but that’s his charm in a way. Being a doctor, it also makes him a different kind of protagonist. He wants to heal; he doesn’t want to fight. He’s the kind that will avoid the big battle in the sky because that’s not him and it makes the final act quite different from any that we’ve seen in any of the previous Marvel films. The extravaganza of special effects is unique, sure, but also because of the way this picture relies on characters being clever and imaginative rather than physically tough to defeat their opponents.

    The side characters in this film vary in depth, but even the villain, the sorcerer

    Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen) gets some good material. When you learn what his deal is, it seems logical, even reasonable. The characters become more interesting as the film moves along and you discover more about the mystic arts Strange is studying. While things appear straightforward at first, there are shades of gray lurking beneath the wonders of magic. It makes the journey and actions of the more memorable characters, such as The Ancient one and Stephen’s compatriot Karl Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) that much richer.

    In 3D, you get to fully appreciate the special effects at work in “Doctor Strange”. It goes without saying that they’re good – hardly any big blockbuster films feature bad effects nowadays – but these are unique sights to behold. The way magic is brought to life, the combat sequences, the big climax, Strange’s journey through the mystic arts are all dazzling. When it comes to the storytelling level, it’s very strong. There’s great foreshadowing, the characters are compelling and this first look at a corner of a much bigger story makes you eager for more. I can’t wait to see what further adventures we’ll get. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing more of Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer, a co-worker of Strange’s. She’s not a romantic interest and I found it very refreshing.

    Every 15 minutes or so," Doctor Strange" serves up special effects utilized in a whole new way and during the quieter moments, there’s a lot of intelligence in the execution of this familiar superhero origin story. That is until the end, where it’s so innovative that I hope other films take note. See "Doctor Strange" in 3D and stick all the way to the end of the credits. (2D theatrical version on the big screen, November 19, 2016)

    8
    HelpfulNot helpful  Reply
    adamwatchesmovies@  23.11.2016 age: 26-35 2,867 reviews

    Show all reviews for this movie
    Note: The movie review posted on this page reflects a personal opinion of one user. We are not responsible for its content.

    Did you see ''Doctor Strange''?

    There is a problem with your e-mail address and we are unable to communicate with you. Please go to My Account to update your email.

    How do you rate this movie?

    Select stars from 1 to 10.
    10 - A masterpiece, go, see it now
    9 - Excellent movie, a must see
    8 - Great movie, don't miss it
    7 - Good movie, worth seeing
    6 - Not bad, could be much better
    5 - So so, okay if you don't pay
    4 - Not good, even if you don't pay
    3 - Poor movie, not recommended
    2 - Very bad, forget about it
    1 - Worst ever, avoid at all costs

    Please explain. Write your comment here:

    Please choose a username to sign your comments. Only letters, digits, dash - or period. Minimum 4 characters.

    Your age and sex:

    We publish all comments, except abusive, at our discretion.