At the Box Office: Review of Marvel’s ‘Doctor Strange’

Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” is metaphorically the latest “Shining Star” in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular Sorcerer Supreme who’s known for his ties with the Avengers and the Defenders in the name of all that is Earth, Wind & Fire.  Get it?  The 70s R&B/funk/soul supergroup Earth. Wind & Fire sang “Shining Star”, which is what Dr. Stephen Strange (Cumberbatch) thinks of himself as in the same way as armored billionaire Avenger Tony Stark/Iron Man: arrogant and brilliant with a know-it-all ego, which puts a strain on Strange’s relationship with fellow doctor Christine (Rachel McAdams).

But his shining star crashed and burn when a car accident left Strange without the feeling of his hands: ending his lucrative and profitable career as an neurosurgeon, but Strange will soon find a much suitable (and yes, profitable) career (and yes, franchise) as a superhero.  Under the teachings and guidance of the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton), and with the aid of Wong (Benedict) and Baron Mordo (Chiwetel Ejofor), Stephen Strange will no longer be Dr. Strange.  He will become Doctor Strange: keeping New York and the rest of the world safe from threats even the Avengers might not be able to handle – if they are ‘Earth’s Mightiest Heroes’.

Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” is supernaturally superb (and supernaturally funny) in every way as the introduction of Ghost Rider – no, not the completely forgettable Nicolas Cage films – on Marvel’s “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.”.  Unlike Cage as Ghost Rider, Cumberbatch was indeed tailor made to play Strange – just like Robert Downey, Jr. was indeed forged for the role of Iron Man.
Rating: ****

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