Marvel has recently released "Doctor Strange," the latest entry in the ever expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe. Marvel die-hards will no doubt show up to theaters in droves, but what might a non-Marvel fan take away from this film?
Anyone unfamiliar with comic books is likely to be unfamiliar to the titular character. Even some superhero fans might be fuzzy on the details on the good doctor. But that factor didn't hold back either "Ant-Man" or "Guardians of the Galaxy." What nearly every movie-goer these days will be familiar with the the formula that has kept the MCU fire fueled for so long. With more than a dozen box office juggernauts to its name, the Marvel Cinematic Universe is a familiar brand. And despite the title, "Dr. Strange" is ultimately a familiar sort of film.
"Dr. Strange" makes the previously little-known titular character pretty easy to get a grasp on. It follows a familiar structure in using copious amounts of humor to introduce a character that is easily understood by one major attribute. In Stephen Strange's case, that attribute is extreme arrogance. With this trait firmly established early, the rest of the film is free to allow star Benedict Cumberbatch to explore the deeper reaches of the character. Unfortunately, the film is so focused on making sure audiences understand the depth off the hero that it generally neglects to really flesh out the supporting cast. Cumberbatch steals the show, but the entire cast puts in an earnest effort. Unfortunately spirited performances by the rest of the cast can only do so much to make up for their characters' limited development. The plot begins to feel more like a mere vehicle to move characters from one action scene to the next. Thankfully the action does not disapoint.
It's unlikely that your average audience member will fixate much on the plot or character development in the film. The real star of "Doctor Strange" is the visual effects. Stunning effects make for truly beautiful imagery, and allow for some of the most creative fight scenes in a modern superhero film. The ever-morphing environment and the unique choreography allowed by it give "Doctor Strange" something truly special to set it apart from other comic book fare.
At this stage in the MCU audiences know what to expect. "Doctor Strange" is a film that ultimately falls right in line with expectations. The visuals dazzle, while the plot and characterizations fall just a bit behind the curve. It all adds up to a film that can keep one entertained in spite of its flaws. A film that will likely satiate the rabid fanbase, but hardly one that will covert the masses to serious fans of Dr. Strange.
