Doctor Strange
Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures | Release Date: November 4, 2016
8.0
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 2062 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
1,747
Mixed:
227
Negative:
88
Watch Now
Stream On
Stream On
Buy on
Stream On
Stream On
Stream On
Expand
Review this movie
VOTE NOW
 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Check box if your review contains spoilers 0 characters (5000 max)

User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
7
chidimeFeb 2, 2017
A very predictable movie, most especially the first half. The 2nd half and towards the ending salvaged it a bit. Could be better, but it wasn't bad. .
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
busbfranNov 4, 2016
It's a fun action piece with hit & miss comedy. Benedict Cumberbatch performance is underwhelming along with the rest of the cast. Dr. Strange is a refreshing concept but never really reaches thrilling heights.
4 of 6 users found this helpful42
All this user's reviews
7
TheApplegnomeJan 14, 2017
Marvel goes full wizard mode — and it is a success.

Cumberbatch proves once again that he’s one of a kind. He’s capable to act many different kinds of characters. Dr. Stephen Strange got this ego-centric, Iron man-ish personality. We followMarvel goes full wizard mode — and it is a success.

Cumberbatch proves once again that he’s one of a kind. He’s capable to act many different kinds of characters. Dr. Stephen Strange got this ego-centric, Iron man-ish personality. We follow his up and downs throughout the film and there are a lot of development going on! Characters are well presented and the chemistry is superb. Antagonist is however a bit cliche-ish -- some inside does exist but not enough to be considered a complex nor rememberable villain. The basic premise of 'Dr Strange' is not as wow as what I expected to see. Some of you will without any doubt love it -- but I didn’t find this ”imaginary land-ish” film that dramatic. It’s a very bright and colorful film for sure, but I wanted even more to the plot and to the characters. A movie is suposed to be driven by the characters alone -- not the plot. But it’s still a fun and enjoyable film; the humor worked at multiple places even though I wanted more, and some of the jokes did come off as bad. Action is a plus; even though more uniqueness would have given it more praise on a personal level. This is a pure film of imagination. It’s action driven, funny, well directed and superbly acted. Still it’s nothing really wow if you ask me. But it’s one more great Marvel film to put on the shelf.

Personal rating: 75/100
Critical rating: 74/100… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
travellynJan 10, 2017
TThe effects are mind blowing the acting is perfect the paste and narrative work and along with marvel balance of humour cool action and high stakes this one delivers the marvel formula with some new material to go with it all while buildingTThe effects are mind blowing the acting is perfect the paste and narrative work and along with marvel balance of humour cool action and high stakes this one delivers the marvel formula with some new material to go with it all while building up to something els and not forgetting that it has its own fitting ground… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
marcmyworksNov 6, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. How do we solve a problem like Doctor Strange?

Here’s the deal, Dr. Strange manages to break away from some of the usual Marvel movie clichés and brings us on a yoga-studio-70s-acid trip adventure in mysticism and martial arts. However, there are some incredible drawbacks that cause the movie to suffer.

The main drawback is again we have a villain that has no character development. The first film in a new series always seems to always have a throw away villain. In this case it was Mads Mikkelsen’s Kaecilius. This guy isn’t even that prominent in the comics and in the film becomes another World dominated villain-of-the-week, not to mention he is always followed by his troop of beautiful and silent back-up-dancer thugs whose main job is to die one by one.

The good of this film however is how it beautifully integrates into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, again building to Infinity Wars with another Infinity Stone (time stone) being found. Benedict Cumberbatch and Rachel McAdam’s chemistry is quite strong and Tilda Swinton really does justice to the character of The Ancient One.

There is a lot of story and a lot of ideas and sometimes they feel quite rushed without much time to have everything properly resolved. I still like this film and want it to do well. I hope that the sequel will be even more grandiose.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
moviemitch96Nov 4, 2016
The latest offering from the MCU, Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the titular role quite well I must say. He makes great and humorous use of his character which is always nice to have in a Marvel film. The rest of the talented supporting castThe latest offering from the MCU, Benedict Cumberbatch takes on the titular role quite well I must say. He makes great and humorous use of his character which is always nice to have in a Marvel film. The rest of the talented supporting cast with the likes of Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, Mads Mikkelson, and Tilda Swinton were all fun to watch as well. In addition, we're presented with what's easily Marvel's trippiest film yet! The effects are dazzling and truly a sight to behold, but admittedly did get a bit too colorful and all over the place at times for my liking. Overall, in terms of the MCU it's certainly no game-changer and while I enjoyed Civil War earlier this year significantly more, this is still what I'd consider to be a fun and entertaining addition that makes me look forward to seeing Cumberbatch return in the next Avengers film.… Expand
5 of 5 users found this helpful50
All this user's reviews
7
TheMetacritiqerNov 6, 2016
It is, as I predicted, the best Marvel movie since Iron(pronounced I-Ron) Man 3. The past ones were made bad by excessive numbing action and lack of any real danger(can you think of any major character thats died?) among other things. But DrIt is, as I predicted, the best Marvel movie since Iron(pronounced I-Ron) Man 3. The past ones were made bad by excessive numbing action and lack of any real danger(can you think of any major character thats died?) among other things. But Dr S's best feature is how visually stunning it is. I like to think of how well classic weird fiction writers would have thought of the dark(actually quite colorful dark dimension. And there are some funny parts in there as well. The best one involves beyonce. Well, I guess I'll have to wait till 2019 till another good marvel movie comes out:Captain freaking Marvel. She's Brie Larson. But thankfully, I'll have DC movies(and other wonderful entertainment.Think Mass Effect Andromeda) to fill the time.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
Jim222001Jun 15, 2017
One super cool and unique movie with a great cast. Despite loving most of it, the movie falls apart a little in the end though. Still movies like the Matrix and Inception are made to look like they were to get us ready for Doctor Strange.One super cool and unique movie with a great cast. Despite loving most of it, the movie falls apart a little in the end though. Still movies like the Matrix and Inception are made to look like they were to get us ready for Doctor Strange. Since they may even be less trippy. A lot of Doctor Strange is some best from Marvel on screen. Would be a 10 if I didn't feel like the end was a little rushed with a anti climatic battle between good and bad.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
WheelzFourReelzNov 9, 2016
Visually, Doctor Strange is the best Marvel film to date with it's gorgeous and trippy special effects. In terms of storytelling, the film isn't great because of a lot of rushed moments. But overall, Doctor Strange is another enjoyable movieVisually, Doctor Strange is the best Marvel film to date with it's gorgeous and trippy special effects. In terms of storytelling, the film isn't great because of a lot of rushed moments. But overall, Doctor Strange is another enjoyable movie in the Marvel Cinematic Universe that is certainly worth watching.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
RalfbergsFeb 22, 2017
Good movie, quite interesting, great acting from main characters, but I did find it quite generic after watching so many superhero movies in last few years and also tv series. I mean I hoped this will be something much more different fromGood movie, quite interesting, great acting from main characters, but I did find it quite generic after watching so many superhero movies in last few years and also tv series. I mean I hoped this will be something much more different from everything else as they put it before, while promoting the movie. But in the end it didn't feel that much different, of course there were some interesting plot points and the whole effects and CGI reminds me of Inception but on a larger scale. Anyway, good movie, nothing much more… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
shoulderoforionNov 4, 2016
Just saw it in 3D, because it was the showing that wasn't sold out and was at the time I wanted to see a movie, after my eyes got used to the 3D effects it was fine, I liked the movie, it was different & fun, the actors were all great, didJust saw it in 3D, because it was the showing that wasn't sold out and was at the time I wanted to see a movie, after my eyes got used to the 3D effects it was fine, I liked the movie, it was different & fun, the actors were all great, did get the feeling there was a whole lotta cultural appropriation going on tho. Not entirely sure I'd be into another Doctor Strange, but it was enjoyable.… Expand
5 of 7 users found this helpful52
All this user's reviews
7
Rebecca31Nov 4, 2016
Benedict Cumberbatch is Doctor Strange and yes I'm gonna fangirl over this movie a little bit, I just can't help myself. The most enjoyable Marvel movie I've seen in a long time, a great cast all round, particularly from Cumberbatch.Benedict Cumberbatch is Doctor Strange and yes I'm gonna fangirl over this movie a little bit, I just can't help myself. The most enjoyable Marvel movie I've seen in a long time, a great cast all round, particularly from Cumberbatch. Thoroughly enjoyable, great story, beautiful music and although it tries too hard to be funny at times and crossed the line into over the top territory I still loved it. Mads Mikkelsen is just born to play the bad guy in anything and this is no exception, complete with the most fabulous purple and silver eye makeup you'll ever see. The stand out feature of this is clearly the stunning visual effects and if it deserves an award for anything it's that. Highly recommended and as with most Marvel movies you get not one but two end credit scenes… Expand
8 of 9 users found this helpful81
All this user's reviews
7
DukeSilverNov 14, 2016
A bit of a wasted opportunity to create an impactful origin story if you ask me. I much prefer the slower more methodical story in Batman Begins to Doctor Stange's extremely fast paced, somewhat rushed beginning. There were a few toA bit of a wasted opportunity to create an impactful origin story if you ask me. I much prefer the slower more methodical story in Batman Begins to Doctor Stange's extremely fast paced, somewhat rushed beginning. There were a few to oversimplified things in the movie such as the casual loop paradox that left me scratching my head. The special effects were cool, but that's about it. Cumberbatch was the best part of the film by a wide margin.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
GjmzvsOct 21, 2017
It wasn't a bad film at al, but its special effects are exaggerated,it makes like a whatever film, but they're almost perfect used in this film to show the unreality in reality.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
FuturedirectorNov 7, 2016
As Iron Man, Doctor Strange comes up to the MCU in a very strict manner: following the rules implanted by its predecessors as easily as the ABC and staging a wonderfully talented interpretation from Cumberbatch..., then, an Inception'sAs Iron Man, Doctor Strange comes up to the MCU in a very strict manner: following the rules implanted by its predecessors as easily as the ABC and staging a wonderfully talented interpretation from Cumberbatch..., then, an Inception's visual-effects is shown and a encroaches the storytelling.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
mp303Feb 4, 2017
Once againg Marvel did a amazing job. The only thing that didn't make me give a 9 for this movie was that the training montage was lacking effort. It looks like magic is easy to learn on this movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
superbatJun 1, 2020
Doctor Strange is an entertaining spectacle. In order to fully appreciate this film's greatness, you would've had to have seen it in theaters. The effects were simply dazzling to watch. Outside of the effects, Doctor Strange is quite anDoctor Strange is an entertaining spectacle. In order to fully appreciate this film's greatness, you would've had to have seen it in theaters. The effects were simply dazzling to watch. Outside of the effects, Doctor Strange is quite an ordinary movie. The story feels like a rehash of the first Iron Man movie. Stephen Strange is just as arrogant as Tony Stark, but is much less likeable. Strange's accent was quite...strange, to say the least. Overall, Doctor Strange is good, but not great, MCU flick.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
JyroJyroSep 18, 2017
The stylish explosion of reality bending visuals in Doctor Strange is truly awe-inspiring, and manages to successfully offset the generic 'world is about to be destroyed' storyline. It's also genuinely funny.
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
RathaelNov 5, 2016
DOCTOR STRANGE REVIEW

Doctor Strange is here. This is one of the most unique Marvel properties, and the first MCU Property that Marvel had to go full magic with. Lot of the other characters that should have been using magic in the MCU hasDOCTOR STRANGE REVIEW

Doctor Strange is here. This is one of the most unique Marvel properties, and the first MCU Property that Marvel had to go full magic with. Lot of the other characters that should have been using magic in the MCU has not really done so, and was always able to be explained through science and technology. That buck stops here with Doctor Strange, first magical character to grace the Marvel Cinematic Universe. And it is brought to life by one of the most talented actors in Hollywood right now. And for the most part it works, it is entertaining and fun and that's great but it doesn't really go above that factor.

This is going to be strange sounding but Doctor Strange to me seems almost like a remake of Iron Man, with another skin over it, there are a ton of similarities between the two movies which I am not going to spoil here, but they are not hard to see. Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange is really good and really manages to bring the wonder to the character even though his American accent is a bit hard to stomache at times, it does not detract from his performance as Stephen Strange. And this is not his fault, but with the screenplay he was given, he had to channel another Marvel hero quite a bit, which at least for me was a bit detracting. Without spoiling anything that wasn't already seen in the trailer, Stephen Strange is a doctor that gets thrust into world of magic after an accident, and this is where he meets the Ancient One played by multi talented Tilda Swinton. And she is also more than capable of carrying her part even though the character of Ancient One in the comic books is an elderly Asian guy, that does not detract from the mission she had in the movie.

Other characters in this movie involve Mads Mikkelsen of Hannibal and James Bond fame as the pseudo-villain of the movie which rejected the Ancient One's training and is trying to create a cult of his own, and again with what he was given he was alright but not much was given to him to do. Entire threat that Doctor Strange needs to face throughout the movie are like five or ten magical users, and the movie again does an Avenger trope of hey lets beat up on the minions until we get to the main boss. Problem is there never really seems to be a much of a threat here. Chiwetel Eijofor is also in this movie as Mordo, and well again he was not really given much to do, he is a trainer for Strange, and a guardian for him.

This movie was directed by Scott Derickson of Sinister fame (or infamy) for others, and I was really hoping he would bring that visual flair that he brought to Sinister, not so much make it a horror movie, but for the movie have that feeling of impending darkness and dwelling of doom from time to time. And I don't know if this was intentional or not, but when we were supposed to be coming to those parts movie actually turned to another movie from another franchise back in 1997 which I will not name but it does involve Bats and Birds (*wink wink*). And I found that a bit distracting.

Visually movie looks great with use of magic and some of the fights are spectacular to watch. I have not seen the movie in 3D, and part of me wishes that I did and the other part is very very glad I did not, as a lot of the scenes are very Inception like, but in a sense it is Inception to the nth degree where the confusion can set into place, and lot of it looks like you are watching a movie through a Kaledioscope, which looks beautiful don't get me wrong, but prolonged exposure can give you headaches!

And more thing that is worth mentioning is costume design in this movie is phenomenal and they could not have made Doctor Strange's cloak and full costume any better!

There are 2 post credit scenes that I won't spoil, but one of them I sure you can guess what it is, if you are familiar with the comics at all.

Overall movie is enjoyable watch, its not nearly the best Marvel movie and is far from being the worst one as well, if you can overlook the similarities between this and the other Marvel movie that proceeded it, you might be able to enjoy the story little bit more than me. Just make sure you understand that is in origin story and same with any origin story, there is a ton of exposition where they try to bombard you with information you may or may not need to have. Visuals are fun to watch, even sometimes distracting, and movie is definetely worth watching for Cumberbatch's and Swinton's performances which are alone worth price of admission. Just get past his American accent.

2.75 out of 4… Expand
8 of 8 users found this helpful80
All this user's reviews
7
ely4Nov 5, 2016
Overall feeling, its good. Repeatable viewings? not so sure. There are a few things that bother me about the MCU now, it feels like they need to throw in jokes in every scene that gets intense. It just throws you out of the movie.
2 of 4 users found this helpful22
All this user's reviews
7
laxdrew2Nov 12, 2016
Doctor Strange was a step in a new direction for Marvel. Marvel went outside the classic superhero theme, and came out with a different (but not necessarily good) story. Benedict Cumberbatch played the role of Doctor Strange very well, butDoctor Strange was a step in a new direction for Marvel. Marvel went outside the classic superhero theme, and came out with a different (but not necessarily good) story. Benedict Cumberbatch played the role of Doctor Strange very well, but there were other problems. The plot was fairly predictable, and CGI graphics were over-used in some scenes. There were a few attempts at comedy, and some (but not all) were actually amusing. Overall, Doctor Strange was a good solid movie. Not Marvel's best, but certainly an entertainer.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
7
ILoveBF1May 4, 2019
Refreshing concepts are always my cup of tea and Doctor Strange is not an exception. My only gripe with the movie is the rushed development of Strange. The use of overused cliches are also present (the chosen one, the training arc, etc).
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
BustamancanNov 19, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. We went to see the movie Dr. Strange. We had somewhat high expectations for the movie.The movie itself wasn’t all it was cracked up to be. The story was paced decently, in accordance to other Marvel movies, but it had the usual Marvelistic go along with the story tinge. It would race through parts that needed to be more carefully explained to understand the basic premise of the story. Then, the main character was a doctor so they used terminology that the average viewer isn’t able to pick up on. That was fine. I can understand that. I don’t know much about medicine so I went along with it. But then it went into physics into a hemisphere that is still relatively unknown in science. The bending of space and time. Things got a little sloppy there even when they were trying to explain it it didn’t make sense to me. So the plot outline was that this pompous doctor is physically disabled due to car accident and is forced to be relieved from his work. His work is basically his life. He is revered as a top physician in his field. He is a neurologist. The tragedy shakes him to his core. He is jarred by his perceived incompetence of everyone around him including the doctors that did work on his recovery and even his potential love interest. Upon his recovery he feels emptied and left in an inadequate place to move on. He ventures on a journey to find healing through Far Eastern rehabilitation methods. When arriving to his destination he is met by the “all knowing one” who puts him on an humbling pathway of enlightenment so that he can come to terms with life in general. Once there, he becomes a master of martial arts and hidden magic translated through ancient concepts derived from an excessive amount of knowledge provided by an abundance of doctrine. Then with his newfound abilities he is matched against a master of said practices who had been outcasted from the temple due to his use of the “dark” magic. The story delves into physics, magic and eastern philosophy. That’s also a weak point in the story. It’s pitched to the audience that it is of higher knowledge so it’s not supposed to make sense but there’s conflict because you need to make sense of it. On top of that, the humor was predictable and usually came off as corny. Again, Marvelesque. It did have some nice visual effects. The sort of Inception type but that got old real quick and at certain points became simply overdone. Then the motivation behind it seemed to be inconsistent with it's intent. Also, the antagonist came off as weak. They met frequently but he was no real threat to the direction of the film. So either the movie was poorly put together or things were just going over my head. I’d give it a C overall.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
VirgonoShakaDec 10, 2016
The first thing I think of this movie is probably: "Whoa, look at that backgrounds, look at the colors, look at the effects" and all in all, that is the most impressive thing of it. The effects showcase that this is a different world than inThe first thing I think of this movie is probably: "Whoa, look at that backgrounds, look at the colors, look at the effects" and all in all, that is the most impressive thing of it. The effects showcase that this is a different world than in the other marvel movies, and it makes it a very unique superheroe movie. But in comparison to other ones, the villain is not interesting at all, and the conflict in general is not very exciting,and I wanted to find more about Strange, Wong, or just the objects in the safe houses than seeing the next scene in the conflict. Nevertheless, Good movie, excellent soundtrack by Michael Giacchino, good casting, excellent effects. Fun movie, and marvel continues to impress in their universe.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
7
SomePersonaJan 23, 2017
This movie goes way too fast. There are no time cards or cues to tell the passage of time, and even if the movie had them, not much in the movie feels very earned. The effects are great, but they are spoiled to the viewer in a clichéThis movie goes way too fast. There are no time cards or cues to tell the passage of time, and even if the movie had them, not much in the movie feels very earned. The effects are great, but they are spoiled to the viewer in a cliché beginning with the mentor and the villain (with no variations to it).… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
HappyislandsMay 7, 2017
This was throughly enjoyable until the last act. Can't believe they used time travel as way to win the day. Still, a decent movie apart from that, Tilda Swinton was excellent.
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
7
BelugaSamuraiFeb 21, 2017
Also known as LSD the movie, and also a great reminder of why, i personally, as time goes, have come to dislike the concept of a "Cinematic Universe", not because its filled with references and hints to past and future movies in Marvel´sAlso known as LSD the movie, and also a great reminder of why, i personally, as time goes, have come to dislike the concept of a "Cinematic Universe", not because its filled with references and hints to past and future movies in Marvel´s factory line that tend to run away from the word subtle like the plague, but because it actually doesnt do any of that, there is still a fair share of nods here and there but the movie doesnt focus on them, wich reminds me of simpler times when storylines begun and ended in one single movie and when marvel was more subtle with their scripts, and were focused more on a shared universe rather than a shared plotline.

That and the fresh concept wich to be honest is possibly my favourite side of the whole universe, the amazing and sometimes trippy visuals, and the great portray of these characters, produce what i now consider one of my favourites on Marvel´s lineup.

This "freshness" is also a great way to forget and ultimately forgive, certain flaws wich may or may not be originated from the fact that the movie still moves on the rails of a familiar formula we have seen in other MCU movies, wich doesnt let the movie go all out on the wierdness that is Doctor Strange and results on not so perfect character development who for the most part is handled preety well to the point where i was actually caught by surprise by the arc of one of them, but still feels a bit rushed particularly the villain and Strange himself, Also the need to write jokes every five minutes makes it so that some end up falling on their faces and actually end up taking away from more dramatic moments.

In conclusion a great fun ride that is definitely worth a look even if you are at this point like me on superhero fatigue mode, lets just hope theres less Beyonce in the next one.

Final Score: 7 sheets of acid out of 10… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
ZerpnosMar 5, 2017
Klasik bir Marvel filmi. Sonsuzluk taşını işlemek ve Infinity War'a zemin hazırlamak için yapılan bir film olduğunu düşünüyorum. Senaryosu pek iyi değil, fakat yine de izletiyor işte kendini. DC gibi karanlık havada geçmiyor ve bu yüzdenKlasik bir Marvel filmi. Sonsuzluk taşını işlemek ve Infinity War'a zemin hazırlamak için yapılan bir film olduğunu düşünüyorum. Senaryosu pek iyi değil, fakat yine de izletiyor işte kendini. DC gibi karanlık havada geçmiyor ve bu yüzden Marvel'in çocuk kitleye daha çok hitap ettiğini düşünüyorum. Yine de Fox gibi işin içine etmeden güzel bir şekilde işliyorlar. İzlemesi keyifli ve hoş vakit geçireceğinizi düşündüğüm bir film.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
katfrogMar 17, 2017
"Doctor Strange" presents the creation story of yet another Marvel character. While I normally love this type of movie, I found this particular venture to be lacking. The writers here told the audience several important bits of information,"Doctor Strange" presents the creation story of yet another Marvel character. While I normally love this type of movie, I found this particular venture to be lacking. The writers here told the audience several important bits of information, instead of showing the audience. Compared to "Logan" or even the first Iron Man movie, "Doctor Strange" feels flat. The acting is phenomenal and the special effects are cool, but the script itself needs a few basic improvements.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
HPFANBOY1237Apr 9, 2017
SO overrated! I'm so disappointed with this film, it started great and then just became a complete mess, jumping place to place with a horrible villain. While some of Doctor Strange shines most of it is just disappointing.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
Bugger217Sep 14, 2017
Doctor Strange is very similar to the original Iron Man. Tony Stark's flaws and overall snarky personality are just like Strange's, so the trajectory of their character arcs are about the same. It's almost as if Marvel is setting Strange upDoctor Strange is very similar to the original Iron Man. Tony Stark's flaws and overall snarky personality are just like Strange's, so the trajectory of their character arcs are about the same. It's almost as if Marvel is setting Strange up to be Stark's replacement once Robert Downey Jr. leaves the franchise. That said, this is still a good movie.

Director Scott Derrickson beautifully brings the MCU into the realm of magic and mysticism, which helps set the movie apart from Iron Man, and add flavor to the typical Marvel formula. The visuals here are crazy and mind-bending, but the cast effortlessly makes the audience feel at home in the weirdness.

Benedict Cumberbatch plays the snarky jerk almost too well. Tilda Swinton is electric and strange. She has an extraterrestrial quality about her that makes her fascinating to watch. Mads Mikkelsen isn't given a ton to do as the villain of the piece, but he's Mads Mikkelsen, so he totally sells the role anyway. He's surprisingly funny in this.

There's enough great stuff going on in Doctor Strange that makes it pretty easy to forgive its relatively formulaic approach to the superhero origin story, including great performances, awesome visuals, impressively constructed set pieces, and a finale that feels refreshingly small, even with its large-scale implications. I can very easily recommend this one to you.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
LUKEOPERCOUPOct 3, 2017
Doctor Strange was one of my biggest heros. I was really hyped by this movie and it was not a dissapointment, It really gives a diferent perspective of what we are use to see as SUPER HERO in films. Also, the movie's effects and visuals are perfect.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
MacsMusicJan 11, 2018
I've seen this movie twice, and can confirm that it's a pretty legit superhero movie. The main character is a bit stereotypical for a Marvel hero, but ultimately is pretty likeable. Visually, this movie is AAA. This movie has some good humor.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
amheretojudgeApr 12, 2019
Derrickson has head spinning schemes and the whiplash you get is not your average painful regret but a breath of fresh air.

Doctor Strange Derrickson has a spooky image when it comes to filmmaking but contradicting everyone's expectations,Derrickson has head spinning schemes and the whiplash you get is not your average painful regret but a breath of fresh air.

Doctor Strange

Derrickson has a spooky image when it comes to filmmaking but contradicting everyone's expectations, his entry on MCU is the simplest, smoothest and sanest of all. It makes sense. Period. That should have been his job and he made it his until you nod to the most senseless argument of all; not the visual effects, no, never. They make more sense than you'd expect it to be, even when there is an entire world flipped upside down; literally, Scott Derrickson, the co-writer and director, maps out an intricate puzzle for us to solve that is not just a delightful but an overwhelming experience. The writing is balanced on all the aspects, the physical sequences, visual galores, enlightening conversations and humor, so smooth and smartly weaved out where laugh goes unnoticed unlike any other chapter of this franchise.

So balanced is the writing that Benedict Wong gets a final laugh, Rachel McAdams- the respect, Chiwetel Ejiofor- a clean direction and Michael Stuhlbarg- an opportunity. But above all Tilda Swinton's captivating performance of a truly wise saint digs deeper than even Benedict Cumberbatch could. She pleads and cries like a four year old and blesses, "Death is what gives life meaning." and you THEN completely surrender to her sorcery.

There is a jarring impact on your emotions when her voice stutters in a disappointment, not in others, no she regrets and criticizes her own inadequacies. Cumberbatch, as the inflated egoistic mastermind with of course superiority complex, comes in handy for him, his years of practice in breathing life to Sherlock Holmes has given him a partial boost, but as the film ages, you discover how different he is from the previously cloaked version of him, and that journey is intentional and frankly a curvy joyous ride- observing Doctor Strange with an awe.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
metta206Feb 20, 2018
In a lot of ways, its Iron Man with magic. A good, solid Marvel movie, but really a bit generic when I think about it. Some great visuals that lose luster on the small screen. Worth a watch if you like Marvel.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
DovahKJul 2, 2018
Me gustan demasiado las películas de Marvel, lo hacen casi todo bien, bonito, entretenido, divertido...
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
7
bertboy93Jul 17, 2020
Very nice visuals and benedict cumberbatch is really good in this movie, the story is solid, and it does have some pacingproblems, still a good movie
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
All_ButTrU4Jul 5, 2022
Outlandish detour from the usual marvel catalogue this orgin movie is a visual feast! It introduces the master of the mystic arts through a self involved surgeon who following a ruining tragedy searches the world for a way to regain what heOutlandish detour from the usual marvel catalogue this orgin movie is a visual feast! It introduces the master of the mystic arts through a self involved surgeon who following a ruining tragedy searches the world for a way to regain what he had lost but instead finds more than he could've imagined.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
CooperReviews44Dec 6, 2018
Doctor Strange is a very unique film. I haven't seen much quite like it. The cinematography, camera angles, and special effects create these crazy illusions and "whoa" moments. Benedict Cumberbatch did a great job and does a great job asDoctor Strange is a very unique film. I haven't seen much quite like it. The cinematography, camera angles, and special effects create these crazy illusions and "whoa" moments. Benedict Cumberbatch did a great job and does a great job as Strange. The action is unique and fun and the humor is done well if a bit overused at times. Of course this is a marvel movie so the villains are very forgettable. The plot was very simple and easy to follow and I found it quite good. Strange's arc is very good but the similarities to Iron-Man is ridiculous. The pacing is a little weird and the side characters aren't all that great. Overall a great film lacking in some aspects. Very entertaining.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
7
Experiment626Dec 26, 2020
Typical Marvel fair. For me that's good. Cumberbatch played Strange well. For me, Wong was the stand out in the movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
TaisenZAug 2, 2019
Doutor Estranho passou de desconhecido para meu 3º herói favorito em pouco tempo. Seu filme solo não me animava, para ser sincero mas me surpreendeu.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
This film features some pretty impressive visual effects/CGI, as is to be expected of such a Marvel universe film. The acting is pretty decent - I admit I was curious to see Cumberbatch play such a role. The titular character isn't entirelyThis film features some pretty impressive visual effects/CGI, as is to be expected of such a Marvel universe film. The acting is pretty decent - I admit I was curious to see Cumberbatch play such a role. The titular character isn't entirely likeable, he is somewhat of an anti-hero but the film is pretty engrossing and I imagine appeals to a teenage audience (and teens at heart I suppose). It was a decent watch, even though I did get a bit confused about some of the plot details but then I'm not familiar with the Marvel universe, character wise, so again thats to be expected I guess. It seemed a pretty decent, engrossing film to me, so I'd recommend it on that basis.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
r96skJan 20, 2021
One of my least favourites so far in the MCU. Still a good film, no doubt.

'Doctor Strange' features a lot of intrigue and lore, which is certainly interesting to see unfold. I just felt a few pacing issues, nothing that frustrated me but itOne of my least favourites so far in the MCU. Still a good film, no doubt.

'Doctor Strange' features a lot of intrigue and lore, which is certainly interesting to see unfold. I just felt a few pacing issues, nothing that frustrated me but it just felt a little slow moving in moments. I still enjoyed it, the story is a pleasant one and all the effects look splendid.

Benedict Cumberbatch is great in the lead role, I thoroughly enjoyed his performance. Mads Mikkelsen and Tilda Swinton are good in this as well, especially the latter. Chiwetel Ejiofor and Rachel McAdams are likeable in their respective roles, also.

Not one I love, but it is one I like.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
Onlyclassicvg1Dec 8, 2020
The Incredible Hulk isn't very Incredible.
Edward Norton gives a good performance but the concept of Hulk itself just seems tired. There is no new outlook on the hero just simply a repeatedly mediocre take on a very one dimensiona
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
Company_5501Jul 11, 2020
Somehow I just can't get enough of this movie, although it is similar to Inception, a movie which I did not fully understand. But, as I said, Doctor Strange got many things that make it great and many things that are not very smoothlySomehow I just can't get enough of this movie, although it is similar to Inception, a movie which I did not fully understand. But, as I said, Doctor Strange got many things that make it great and many things that are not very smoothly integrated or just feel strange. (haha, did you spot the joke?)… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
Cementer200Sep 22, 2020
I like Doctor Strange it's interesting marvel movie if you're a fan of the MCU you should like Doctor Strange.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
Fatbob15Oct 21, 2022
Although not as good as some of the other marvel movies, it's still a blast.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
FraJer212Mar 20, 2021
The cast is (as it always is with the MCU movies) is brilliant. I didn't like the villains. I felt like Mikkelsen was wasted potential because he was such a default bad guy that I don't remember his name already and didn't find that MasterThe cast is (as it always is with the MCU movies) is brilliant. I didn't like the villains. I felt like Mikkelsen was wasted potential because he was such a default bad guy that I don't remember his name already and didn't find that Master guy interesting at all. The sound and visuals are stunning. Everything before he went to Kathmandu was great. Great adaptation overall.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
7
DarkwingSchmuckMar 13, 2022
Doctor Strange is a fairly decent, if not standard, entry in the MCU. While most of the film is a serviceable enough superhero origin story, there are a few neat visual touches, as well as a very clever climactic set piece which -- thankfullyDoctor Strange is a fairly decent, if not standard, entry in the MCU. While most of the film is a serviceable enough superhero origin story, there are a few neat visual touches, as well as a very clever climactic set piece which -- thankfully -- forgoes the typical CGI slug fest for something far more unique and well thought out.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
DimajexMar 2, 2017
The Marvel Formula get applied to Inception... meh. Other than some decent actors it is hard to find much to like about this movie. Magic is a bit painful because at least in the world of Dr. Strange it doesn't seem to have any rules. So aThe Marvel Formula get applied to Inception... meh. Other than some decent actors it is hard to find much to like about this movie. Magic is a bit painful because at least in the world of Dr. Strange it doesn't seem to have any rules. So a bunch of stuff happens and the audience is left saying, "Sure, why not."… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
wesker2012Mar 11, 2018
It's the usual modern super hero formula. Gets the job done, but in the end, it's pretty forgettable. Good special effects, but pretty predictable and not very exciting.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
ReubenIsAGodNov 4, 2016
Man, going back and being critical is fun. Doctor Strange wasn't bad. I actually really enjoyed the ride, and am kinda super happy to have this character in the MCU. But like, HEY, its another Marvel affair. Its solidly entertaining, nice andMan, going back and being critical is fun. Doctor Strange wasn't bad. I actually really enjoyed the ride, and am kinda super happy to have this character in the MCU. But like, HEY, its another Marvel affair. Its solidly entertaining, nice and kinda lighthearted action fare fun. Its not bad, at all really, its just kinda plain and kinda lifeless, it really lacks personality. THIS is my biggest issue with a lot of these MARVEL Films, they lack personality and voice. They just seem like these big corporate flicks, that not necessarily terrible, lack a certain amount of opinion and voice to them.… Expand
4 of 10 users found this helpful46
All this user's reviews
6
BlueskymotionMay 17, 2017
sorry but I was greatly dissapointed of this movie - the script is flat and predictable. Yes, the special effects are great but annoyingly overblown .. I don't hink this movie deserves any rating more then 6.5 - 7 .. so I give it a 6
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
43in2014Nov 5, 2016
Related media: I have watched all of the previous Marvel films but do not know much about Dr Strange.

What's it like?: It's like a good vs evil fight, among wizards, but the twist here, since it has to relate to the modern world and theRelated media: I have watched all of the previous Marvel films but do not know much about Dr Strange.

What's it like?: It's like a good vs evil fight, among wizards, but the twist here, since it has to relate to the modern world and the rest of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, is that the prize is the control of time.

Pros:
1) There are some nice special effects that push beyond what was shown in Inception, but see Cons #2.

Cons:
1) The writing/story just wasn't good enough. Most of the characters' backgrounds and motivations were not properly explained. Most of the magical concepts and their rules weren't clearly explained too. A bit of explanation was offered at the end, but it was too little.
2) The Inception-like special effects, the fractal geometry and the spells graphics were interesting until they were over-used and they became non-events. It also left me confused as to what was going on.
3) Dr Strange did not come off as a likabe person in the end due to his multi-faceted character. I cannot root for him and I cannot root for the film.
4) Scenes involving the ultimate villain were only so-so. The most commonly seen villain was also inadequately covered.

How would the the different age groups rate it?
Children: (The film is not rated for children.)
Teens: Good
Young adults: Good
Medium age adults: Average
Old adults: Poor

Tip: There are two 'post-credit' scenes.

Rating: 3/5 (no half scores). Sorry folks. Save your money and watch it on TV.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
6
The__ShowmanNov 4, 2016
Age old cinematic formula which is just looping in Hollywood especially in Marvel movies. Its the same story again with better VFX of-course plus Sherlock (Cumberbatch). Age old puns (some people do call it humor, but I don't), beaten toAge old cinematic formula which is just looping in Hollywood especially in Marvel movies. Its the same story again with better VFX of-course plus Sherlock (Cumberbatch). Age old puns (some people do call it humor, but I don't), beaten to death screenplay and Stan Lee (tired of your cameos) makes a stodgy Normal (not anymore Marvel) movie. I believe we need much better movies with good scripts and screenplays.

Just Style NO Substance!!!!… Expand
2 of 6 users found this helpful24
All this user's reviews
6
PeterAlexanderDec 11, 2016
This movie is undoubtedly strange, but entertaining in its pure absurdity. The film has issues developing characters, particularly the villains, but Benedict Cumberbatch plays Doctor Strange expertly. The film strives on its mystery, thusThis movie is undoubtedly strange, but entertaining in its pure absurdity. The film has issues developing characters, particularly the villains, but Benedict Cumberbatch plays Doctor Strange expertly. The film strives on its mystery, thus rendering the final act somewhat disengaging in comparison to what it could have been.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
6
tethysdustNov 24, 2016
The visual effects and action are really good. However, there's not that much story and the characters feel empty. There are several gaping plot holes that you have to just accept. I enjoyed watching it, but I don't think it will beThe visual effects and action are really good. However, there's not that much story and the characters feel empty. There are several gaping plot holes that you have to just accept. I enjoyed watching it, but I don't think it will be remembered as the height of Marvel.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
shiftworkerNov 30, 2016
Martial Arts fantasy. Benedict Cumberbatch's days as a surgeon are ruined, leading him to spiritual training in the Far East and a contest between good and evil forces. Starts well. But then becomes bogs down in mumbo jumbo and set pieceMartial Arts fantasy. Benedict Cumberbatch's days as a surgeon are ruined, leading him to spiritual training in the Far East and a contest between good and evil forces. Starts well. But then becomes bogs down in mumbo jumbo and set piece fights. The special effects are impressive and the cast put in good performances.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
MicrOxydeNov 4, 2016
Doctor Strange allows the mind of the spectator to wonder but the movie itself lacks real characters (like almost all MCU characters). Kaecilius, the vilain, portrayed by Mads Mikelsen, is just plain ridiculous. He's one of the less developedDoctor Strange allows the mind of the spectator to wonder but the movie itself lacks real characters (like almost all MCU characters). Kaecilius, the vilain, portrayed by Mads Mikelsen, is just plain ridiculous. He's one of the less developed characters, not only in this movie, but in all the MCU.
Another problem with the movie in the plot. As a whole, it's very, very basic. Dialogue scenes followed by a combat followed by another dialogue scene and so on. It's the basic formula of all late MCU movies but this time it's too much.
The movie does have it's moment. The beginning is very captivating, and Doctor Strange is a good character.
In the end, the movie shows all the problems that the MCU suffers : boring characters and a very basic plot, but the visuals and the beginning of the movie saves it all.
I believe that Marvel should really change their formula by giving their chance to unorthodox directors so that we get more polished movies.… Expand
4 of 9 users found this helpful45
All this user's reviews
6
JcondicNov 27, 2016
As a Marvel movie it doesn’t stray far from their typical formula. Humour, drama and action all mixed in safely. As usually the villain feels under developed with the exception of Loki and Bucky in previous marvel films. The Sequel shouldAs a Marvel movie it doesn’t stray far from their typical formula. Humour, drama and action all mixed in safely. As usually the villain feels under developed with the exception of Loki and Bucky in previous marvel films. The Sequel should have a better villain with Mordo. The film is entertaining and the visuals are fantastic but everything is safe and you always know it will turn out okay. The fact that Strange can turn back time and reset worries me for future marvel films where if they decided to kill a character, strange will reverse with marvel having a big “Gotcha” moment. In the end Strange is on the upper end of Marvel films with Winter Soldier and Guardians of the Galaxy. But if the marvel films don’t start evolving and taking risks it’ll be safe to say they will become more and more forgettable.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
6
dspratlinNov 19, 2016
What’s it about?

A former surgeon with damaged hands named Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) becomes a powerful sorcerer under the tutelage of a mystic known as the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton). Rachel McAdams, Mads Mikkelsen, andWhat’s it about?

A former surgeon with damaged hands named Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) becomes a powerful sorcerer under the tutelage of a mystic known as the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton). Rachel McAdams, Mads Mikkelsen, and Chiwetel Ejiofor co-star in this entry in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

What did I think?

A highly polished affair featuring possibly the most impressive visual effects I've seen in the MCU so far, Doctor Strange checks off most of the boxes. The performances are top notch, the often difficult transition of magic onto the big screen is well-handled and Marvel’s penchant for ever-present humor is, of course, still on show. The storyline is a bit too simplistic for my tastes but that’s the danger of an origin story combined with a need to dumb-down complex concepts. Still, Doctor Strange is a worthy addition to the ever-burgeoning MCU and will entertain for a few hours.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
RepentantSkyDec 20, 2017
It may seem weird to review a movie that didn't even come out this year, as the year itself is wrapping up, but I feel I have something to add to the opinions listed here. That addition, as you can see by the rating I've given is not a one ofIt may seem weird to review a movie that didn't even come out this year, as the year itself is wrapping up, but I feel I have something to add to the opinions listed here. That addition, as you can see by the rating I've given is not a one of high praise, or of utter disgust, but rather more something in the middle. Doctor Strange is by no means a bad film, but it falls into that quickly done "Hero's Journey" story we all seen tine and again. That doesn't make it bad or anything mind, but predictable, plus there's something to be said about the fact that the final third act is basically fight after fight with little to no story involved. The plights some of the characters go through are hard to believe, Strange's story is one we've seen a thousand times before, just going off of basic stereotypes we've all gotten pretty tired of and the plot is easy to figure out, making it feel less impactful than it should. Sure, the ending is smart, and that on top of Cumberbatch's performance are what lead me to give the film a six, but it's a clear sign that the MCU needs to do more to try and keep fans of the comics, and fans of the film pleased, but don't quite know how. I don't hate this film, I don't love it, and that's the problem, because I used to love everything that MCU was despite my love of the comics, and this was just okay, and so has every MCU film been since. Let's hope Infinity War can fix the issues and somewhat stagnant feeling brought on by recent works, and really reinvigorate the film franchise the way the first film did, because right now, I don't feel the hype for the upcoming films that I used to, and I miss it.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
WalterKovacsDec 26, 2017
Enjoyable film with a plot more original then the typical comic book film. A must see for fans of the genre.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
Raouf314Apr 3, 2018
It's just tea, with a little bit of honey - they said
Would be nice to have a cup every once in a while.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
LivingTribunalApr 23, 2018
Those special effects were so good and I remember thinking that in 5 years, there won't be a huge development from this movie's CGI because it is perfect, but I realised that it was not true after seeing Ready Player One. I understand thatThose special effects were so good and I remember thinking that in 5 years, there won't be a huge development from this movie's CGI because it is perfect, but I realised that it was not true after seeing Ready Player One. I understand that it's a good movie, but the plot was not enough to support its CGI. The Villain was so disappointing, however I was entertained a lot when I was watching the movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
criticssuckdickAug 3, 2018
This movie is good but it made me confused.
The visuals are very strange but very beautiful aswell
If you like doctor strange and strangely beautiful visuals then give it a watch.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
6
JeBjBoMar 21, 2023
Cumberbatch was fine in this but imagine Dr. House playing Doctor Strange..
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
clem666Sep 21, 2021
Compared to what Marvel has always produced until now 'Doctor Strange' appears to be one of their best movies. Still there remains many aspects to take care of.

First of all this movie beneits from the memorable Benedict Cumberbatch'sCompared to what Marvel has always produced until now 'Doctor Strange' appears to be one of their best movies. Still there remains many aspects to take care of.

First of all this movie beneits from the memorable Benedict Cumberbatch's presence and prestance (as Doctor Strange) who continues to embody unidimensional ingenious high-IQ characters. The studio also managed to enroll Mads Mikkelsen (as Kaecilius) who truly delivers a surprisingly underwhelming performance all along the feature. But he just couldn't reach the abyssal pathetic and repulsive Tilda Swinton's non-acting skills (and good for him). The scenario is almost okay as things start to get messier and messier as the plot goes on. I guess Marvel couldn't help but throw vague concepts of dark dimensions, multiverse, infinity gems, strange magic and space-time distortions directlt in amazed our faces. Fortunately 'Doctor Strange' also takes time to question major issues in our society as the pride to be a doctor, the arrogance, the self-made man myth, the place of magic, surnatural and religion in our minds and the many unacknowledged vulnerabilities we all live with. All these interesting subjects are tackled with terrific Inception-esque CGI and visual effects, gorgeous lighting and colours, great stagings and notable characters.

We're not surprised to find that everything that adds up to these points is what Marvel has always done and still does. The structure is terribly predictable and despite the great identities of the characters, very few of them develop in any meaningful way throughout the film. Creating empathy for Doctor Strange was really hard to me. I guess the alchemy just didn't show up.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
Sosmooth1982May 13, 2023
There was a lot of cool looking things in this movie and some cool fight scenes. Kind of a boring movie though and a lot of it don't make sense either.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
I9gzMar 30, 2021
Great visuals and fun action sequences paired with a mediocre everything else.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
6
BullyMaguireDec 2, 2021
The story of Doctor Strange was okay. Benedict Cumberbatch is great in the role. The visual effects are top-notch and the Dormammu I've come to bargain moment was great. Also, the directing is decent. but the story is kind of okay and theThe story of Doctor Strange was okay. Benedict Cumberbatch is great in the role. The visual effects are top-notch and the Dormammu I've come to bargain moment was great. Also, the directing is decent. but the story is kind of okay and the villains were terrible and are just straight-up forgettable.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
5
djniceyNov 4, 2016
I was really hoping Marvel/Disney was going to do something fresh and original for this movie, but no, its just the same old origin story we've seen countless times before. This kind of movie is getting really stale, I don't read comic booksI was really hoping Marvel/Disney was going to do something fresh and original for this movie, but no, its just the same old origin story we've seen countless times before. This kind of movie is getting really stale, I don't read comic books but like good movies and this is only an average movie. Kaecilius is yet another underpowered, bland, villain that poses no real threat, so there is no suspense or tension, its just another by the numbers forgettable superhero film.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
All this user's reviews
5
xplo99Nov 5, 2016
This movie is fun to watch but does git a bit boring due to its cliched story line and character, overuse of so-so CG special FX, and (suspension of belief breaking) nonsensical happenings. The main antagonist is boring at best and theThis movie is fun to watch but does git a bit boring due to its cliched story line and character, overuse of so-so CG special FX, and (suspension of belief breaking) nonsensical happenings. The main antagonist is boring at best and the protagonist is the Medical Doctor version of Tony Stark who uses magic instead of technology. I was hoping for something fresh and new but didn't get it.

All that said, the movie is somewhat entertaining if you have a few bucks to spare and some time to kill. You certainly wouldn't want to skip anything even semi-important to see this movie.… Expand
6 of 8 users found this helpful62
All this user's reviews
5
JackalJan 18, 2017
The movie was Ok. Love Marvel and the character was a comic book hero I had as a child. A tad OTT thus the score but it was still a good film. Well portrayed and well made...just went too far unfortunately but still worth watching.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
sanyrubApr 10, 2017
One more basic superhero origin story. Nothing new under teh radar. Despite the great visuals (that keep improvinga nd improving with each blockbuster we get), the story is a very simple one, as expected. As in most Marvel flicks, there´s noOne more basic superhero origin story. Nothing new under teh radar. Despite the great visuals (that keep improvinga nd improving with each blockbuster we get), the story is a very simple one, as expected. As in most Marvel flicks, there´s no room for acting pieces or anything that stands out. Just pure "entertainment" at the very well planned same pace. It just becomes more boring with each new release. People who love visuals with not much thought will keep enjoying this. The rest of film lovers can skip this, as usual.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
eagleeyevikingFeb 23, 2017
Despite awe-inspiring, trippy special effects and fantastic action, Marvel's Doctor Strange is plagued by wooden dialogue, a dour tone, poor performances and clichéd plot.
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
potatoman222Jul 21, 2017
Doctor Strange chamou a atenção de todos com sua promessa de uma experiência nunca antes vivida em um filme da Marvel e em partes, ele paga essa promessa. Entretanto, o filme não se larga da 'formula Marlvel' e toda a novidade que o filmeDoctor Strange chamou a atenção de todos com sua promessa de uma experiência nunca antes vivida em um filme da Marvel e em partes, ele paga essa promessa. Entretanto, o filme não se larga da 'formula Marlvel' e toda a novidade que o filme oferece é ofuscada pelo roteiro arroz-com-feijão que é tão auto-explicativo que chega a ser redundante.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
MrMovieBuffNov 4, 2016
After seeing Phase Three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe kick off with our two main heroes separated due to their different political ideologies, we are now introduced to a more interesting, and magical hero. This time, we are about toAfter seeing Phase Three of the Marvel Cinematic Universe kick off with our two main heroes separated due to their different political ideologies, we are now introduced to a more interesting, and magical hero. This time, we are about to witness a neurosurgeon harnessing magical, portal powers.

Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) is an arrogant, cocky, intellectual, and charming neurosurgeon, at times, it may seem that Cumberbatch is channeling Robert Downey Jr. when he portrays Tony Stark. He often shows off in front of his colleagues including; Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams) and Nicodemus West (Michael Stuhlbarg) at the hospital he works in.

One day, as he is driving and ends up in a car accident, his hands have been damaged to the point where he may be unable to perform surgery ever again. Christine tries to help him move on, but he is too arrogant and full of himself to even try. He hears about a once paralyzed patient named Jonathan Pangborn (Benjamin Bratt), and how he was able to walk again. When he meets him, he tells Strange that the place he went to where he was able to heal was a place called "Kamar-Taj". It is there that Strange meets a man named Karl Mordo (Chiwetel Ejiofor) who tells him about who he must go to to cure his hands.

The person that is able to instruct him is referred to as "The Ancient One" (Tilda Swinton), and she manages to expand Strange's mind, sending him on all these mysterious, hallucinations. She does decide to train him, and he decides to listen... upon studying about what sorts of powers there are to use and how to use them, he becomes fluent in opening portals and releasing his "Astro body", which is almost like an out-of-body experience.

One of The Ancient One's former students, Kaecilius (Mads Mikkelsen) is planning to use the darker magic, as he feels that The Ancient One has been lying to him and underestimated his abilities.

'Doctor Strange' is an average and generic superhero movie disguised as a special effects, almost 'Inception' (2010)-like extravaganza. Yes, the kaleidoscopic effects are amazing, and actually I do recommend paying extra to see this in 3D. The action sequences are eye-popping as we see our characters constantly manipulate and bend landscapes to get away from the antagonists.

Cumberbatch proves to be a worthy addition to the Marvel Universe, his charm and wit will surely be a good replacement once Robert Downey Jr's contract ends. I was disappointed as to how underused Rachel McAdams was... to me, she was nothing more than another superhero love interest, I thought that there could be more depth to her character.

Once again, Mads Mikkelsen joins the club of another underused Marvel villain, at this point, it shouldn't surprise you. Not to mention that the humor in this film is mainly hit and miss, we get some pop-culture references from time to time, and they felt tacked on and forced... there is nothing wrong to add levity, but when it's not needed, it's not needed.

The first act is very clunky, and rushed, the execution of how Dr. Strange was able to find the place he was looking for felt rushed, and he learns how to control these powers in the first twenty minutes of the movie. When you look back on 'Iron Man' (2008), it took Stark at least forty-five minutes of the movie to learn how to control his suits before he truly became "Iron Man". I also felt that the third act could have done with a bit more tension, as the final confrontation felt convenient as the solution was not hard to figure out.

I am familiar with the "Doctor Strange" comics years ago, in fact, I'm surprised that not many people have heard of this character... I'm surprised that he considered a sort-of B-List Marvel character, as I thought a magical hero like him should be more popular. With this film, which is only clocking in at 1 hour and 55 minutes, I feel that it's too short, in fact I wasn't able to tell where the second act ended and where the third act began, it all felt like one huge action scene. Maybe, it could have been 15 minutes longer? To develop the characters a bit better.

The direction by Scott Derrickson is inspired, and the music by Michael Giacchino is somewhat disappointing. The special effects are incredible and one of the best in the MCU... but overall, the story is just... okay.… Expand
1 of 11 users found this helpful110
All this user's reviews
5
Termin8terFeb 13, 2018
This movie made me give up on the MCU. This movie is so average, so forgettable, that it made me feel numb in my mind. Yes, the CGI is good, but you barely give a damn because the movie is so mind-numbingly dull. The acting, directing, storyThis movie made me give up on the MCU. This movie is so average, so forgettable, that it made me feel numb in my mind. Yes, the CGI is good, but you barely give a damn because the movie is so mind-numbingly dull. The acting, directing, story and action is quite bland. I have not seen an MCU movie since I saw this one, and I only plan to see Avengers 4, because it's the culmination of the 5 year build up of Thanos and the Infinity Stones, which I admittedly find exciting. But don't see this movie. You have been warned.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
twall3May 30, 2018
As a Christian, I chose not to see this movie when it came out, knowing it was all about new age spirituality. But then seeing Infinity War, and how cool Doctor Strange was, I was just too curious not to see it. My concerns were confirmed -As a Christian, I chose not to see this movie when it came out, knowing it was all about new age spirituality. But then seeing Infinity War, and how cool Doctor Strange was, I was just too curious not to see it. My concerns were confirmed - icky fake spiritual crap, dabbling both in new age garbage and the occult. But more than that, it was confusing and boring. Bending architecture in Inception was mind-bending, because it was a dream (we can all relate to dreams). Doing the same thing in Doctor Strange, and even more so, because of, well, I'm not sure, was meaningless and empty. I love Marvel movies, but in my opinion, this film, and Thor 2 (Dark World) can and should be ignored. The ONE good thing that came from this movie was the business of getting his hands healed. If they are healed, he'll want to go back to being a Dr, while without the healing, he'll continue to guard things as Dr. Strange. Good point to remember when we don't get everything we want in life - it may be for a higher reason.… Expand
1 of 6 users found this helpful15
All this user's reviews
5
Xan_RyilDec 9, 2016
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. About Dr.Strange, I would like to quote what my late (Imaginary) mentor said about Angelina Jolie’s Salt back in 2010 “This movie has holes in it big enough to drive the whole movie through. The laws of physics seem to be suspended here the same way as in a Road Runner cartoon”.

But is it a good film, we will establish that first we need to look into the matter if “Dr. Strange was rip off, of Christopher Nolan’s movies”
Throughout the movie, characters, special effects and plot was shouting Nolan’s name because it was strikingly very much similar to at least 3 of his movies.
1. Batman Begins
A rich guy goes to Himalayas then comes back enriched with new deathly set of skills/arts with a new persona, does that rings a bell? And the whole texture of the screen, clouds, darker colors, soul shaking crush on a friend who is taking her job very seriously.
There is another tiny bit resemblance, which might the homage to longer twist in batman. Initially Ras’ul Akh’s identity is mistaken by Bruce. So is done by Strange with ancient one.
2. Inception
Now that’s what everyone is talking about the physics defying scenes of inception have been stretched out. Also worth mentioning are those Hallway/Lobby scenes from Inception where no CGI was used and in Dr. Strange it’s all about CGI with excessive artwork and too much goes on too quick that it loses it’s charm. Apart from the visual similarities, the ending of Dr. Strange has huge influence from Inception where characters might get trap in the deepest of the memories for ever. In Dr. Strange it also takes inspiration for ending from another of Nolan’s movie.
3. Interstellar
We travel in alternate dimensions many times in Dr. Strange but do we remember our travels through wormholes? Of course there had been worm holes in movies since decades but we got familiar to the term after Interstellar but the design of wormholes and the fact that it takes you inside a black hole instead of future or past is impact of Interstellar. Dormammu (as funny as it sounds, especially from Bennedict’s mouth) is a fantasized version of a black hole trying to take over the earth. As explained earlier, ending is also inspired by Interstellar where key to save the world lies within a black hole and Hero has to go into it. Ancient One’s character is hugely inspired by Professor Brand from Interstellar as they both introduce the lead character to the object of the plot near the end shown to have kept secret to themselves.
Beside Nolan’s massive impact on the movie, there are other influences which are quite visible. Kaecilius sidekicks were much like characters from Thor, I would not be much surprised to know that they were using same costume, considering the fact that they will share the Marvel universe soon will make it cost effective for producers. It seems like Bennedict is the guy to play role of photographic memory as it’s his 3rd role after Sherlock Holmes in Sherlock and Alan Turning in The Imitation Games. Although Bennedict is brilliant actor but if you are playing similar role again and again it might not be that much entertaining. His role of Alan Turning was different but playing Dr. Strange is very much similar to Playing Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness. Tilda Swinton is brilliant and the only person who fits into the role and does justification to it. Swinton brings charisma with her personality, mild British accent and ability to look stunning with bald head. It’s a shame her character met its destiny, as it could have brought interesting background in upcoming movies. Rest of the cast were not given much chance to prove anything.
Story is not that different from any action or superhero movie ever made. With lose ends like the death of Ancient One (who only has aliases and not funny name), accident of Strange over shoreline, the object to control time was just laid around and the fact how strange manage to successfully maneuver the feat at first attempt, how skull of ancient one was still intact after falling from height of hundreds of feet. And the strategic scheduling of the movie right after Captain America Civil War, where it introduces mirror reality concept. So now all the dirty fight can take place in mirror universe while real one remains intact saving Avengers from future lawsuits. Overall Dr. Strange is enjoyable, especially for its opening sequence and special effects. But again it’s more of form over no substance.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
ComandanteCobraNov 14, 2016
Mixed Movie. Not bad, but not great. It's main weakness is in the script that isn't very memorable and tend to hit the same beats of other movie.
Average story, prevedible jokes, anonimous Bad guyz, too much introduction, boring actionMixed Movie. Not bad, but not great. It's main weakness is in the script that isn't very memorable and tend to hit the same beats of other movie.
Average story, prevedible jokes, anonimous Bad guyz, too much introduction, boring action sequences...and some characterisation is also not up to the mark or way off the comics (for example Ancient One).
Good: Scenography settings are a very good homage to psychedelic '60s comic books art.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
5
FolderMathJun 25, 2017
This movie felt a little strange. The CGI and picture were extremely beautiful, and the landscape bending bent my mind as well. I liked the Ancient One, and I thought her final speech to Strange was brilliant. I didn't like Ejiofor'sThis movie felt a little strange. The CGI and picture were extremely beautiful, and the landscape bending bent my mind as well. I liked the Ancient One, and I thought her final speech to Strange was brilliant. I didn't like Ejiofor's character and Doctor Strange himself. They weren't as fleshed out as they could have been. Doctor Strange's training felt rushed (like he got too good too soon). The romance is minimal, and not well done at all. Maybe I would have liked the movie more if I had read the comic beforehand.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful11
All this user's reviews
5
TrevorsViewDec 9, 2016
Meet neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange. He is as egocentric as any politician, yet as clever at his job as any detective. The well-acclaimed British actor Benedict Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game, Sherlock) takes the stage in the MarvelMeet neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange. He is as egocentric as any politician, yet as clever at his job as any detective. The well-acclaimed British actor Benedict Cumberbatch (The Imitation Game, Sherlock) takes the stage in the Marvel Cinematic Universe to depict one of the cleverest caped crusaders within the franchise. He is certainly a delight as always, but it’s the unusual approach to Doctor Strange that may either paralyze you with amazement or scare you away.

His life at this point is pretty normal: go to work, save a life, have a fight with his nagging coworker/girlfriend played by Academy Award nominee Rachel McAdams (Midnight in Paris, Spotlight), cherry pick the patients he wishes to save, and gloat about the spectacular perfection that is his life. That is, until an uncalled for car crash leaves his hands paralyzed with severe nerve damage.

…Which leads him to Nepal, where an Ancient One is said to be there with knowledge of spiritual healing. It’s not in his comfort zone but hey? What has he got to lose?

So he goes under spiritual training by a cult, receiving far more than he bargained for. Next thing he knows, he is dawned with the abilities to remove his spirit from his material body, create portals in midair, and fly with the powers of a levitating cape, and all in an effort to save the world from an outer demon.

My biggest problem with this highly entertaining (and funny) addition to the MCU is its swaying away from the familiar gadgets and aliens of the previous films and more into an out-of-place exploration of man’s relationship with the occult. It’s not odd to say, especially considering that they do not do a very good job at portraying it.

Normally, if there was a cult such as this one who depend on old spiritual tradition, why are they of all different races around the world? We have one White woman, one Black man, and one Asian, and several others who are from places I cannot possibly pinpoint. It may not matter to you, but this really hurts the film’s believability.

Although I do give director Scott Derrickson (The Exorcism of Emily Rose) credit for telling the story as if it were a real Buddhist or Hindu legend, while at the same time a part of our own modern culture. He does this best through the most obvious yet brilliantly executed way of combining the two: colorful trips through the spiritual universe that wows you off guard, especially when viewed behind 3-D glasses. While not in the infinite realms of the nonmaterialistic universe, Dr. Strange and his comrades fight against the assassins of time and space through showcases of city environments spinning and losing form within itself, as if you’re watching Inception though a kaleidoscope.

Older traditions of Hindu training are also exploited here in the same fashion done by The Matrix: Dr. Strange is thrown to the top of Mt. Everest to test how quickly he can form a portal back to base. It would generate shrieks of joy from all anime fans, but it later turns out to be a missed chance of character development, which leads into this film’s biggest problem…

With something as controversial and delicate as occult practices driving the Marvel Cinematic Universe, I doubt there could be a reasonable way to do something like this under Marvel’s wing perfectly. I do appreciate the risks that they have been taking to be different with each of their films (just compare and contrast Guardians of the Galaxy with Captain America: Civil War for a minute). But frankly, some risks are not worth taking. It was worth it to create the mind-bending kaleidoscopic fight sequences, but when Marvel’s name is attached, I do not believe that it would help with their branding.… Expand
2 of 5 users found this helpful23
All this user's reviews
5
alexandreaDec 1, 2021
Besides certain sequences of true beauty the movie is another bland slog to get over
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
bw14916Feb 4, 2018
Doctor Strange has great visuals and a creative ending, but they don't save this boring story. The origin story is very uninspiring. With the introduction of magic, a lot of time is spent on exposition which drags things down. The villain isDoctor Strange has great visuals and a creative ending, but they don't save this boring story. The origin story is very uninspiring. With the introduction of magic, a lot of time is spent on exposition which drags things down. The villain is very weak and you won't even remember his name at the end of the movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
5
Joseph13Dec 5, 2020
after civil var, age of ultron etc. this movie was disappointment;( i try so hard to not fall asleep ugh it’s definitely not a bad film but it’s just lack something and idk what
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
Rickniks38May 8, 2022
Mediocre but not a bad Marvel movie liked how they introduced magic into the MCU and had Strange have a hero's journey of sorts learning how to put his ego behind him for the greater good.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
DolphinReviewsJul 20, 2022
A very mediocre film. Feels like a demo for special effects with a forgettable villain. There are a couple cool areas of the film. It's not bad, but it certainty isn't good either.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
5
JulienK06Dec 12, 2022
CGI and special effects are great, the antagonist is bad tho and very boring
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
4
BitmouseNov 7, 2016
Meh. More Marvel mediocrity.

Why does every Marvel hero need to be a white male who is either an arrogant condescending prick or a martyr (in psych language this term is often used to describe someone who has a poor sense of self worth andMeh. More Marvel mediocrity.

Why does every Marvel hero need to be a white male who is either an arrogant condescending prick or a martyr (in psych language this term is often used to describe someone who has a poor sense of self worth and often takes on the pain of others to justify being loved)? Thoughts on the racial bias of lead roles aside, where are the balanced normal people?

This movie starts with a fairly decent existential exposition with an interesting exploration of the nature of reality. However, it soon descends into the normal Marvel drible of madman serving some unconvincingly shrouded reimagining of one dimenosional personified evil who must of course be fought, through brute force, by some previously mentioned prick/martyr to save the world and usually get the girl.

While I do admire all of these adaptations of the monomyth, for they do hold the cultural imagination, loosely, by their shaky reflection of these classic tropes, I find Marvel as always squanders the opportunity to do something truly great.

Movie could be the living bible of our civilization. Base entertainment could combine with high spiritual truth and myth. However, most film falls far.

It makes me for what purpose people write these movies? I would imagine for profit, prestige, and power.

Had they learned from the myths to which they owe their livelihood they would learn that such goals lead to naught.

A higher course would yield higher fruit.… Expand
0 of 5 users found this helpful05
All this user's reviews
4
ryecaNov 4, 2016
To start, I saw this in IMAX 3D, which detracted from my experience of the movie. I can not recommend 3D as a viable movie technology yet; it is still more distracting than elevating. Skip 3D for now. The visuals will be more stunning withoutTo start, I saw this in IMAX 3D, which detracted from my experience of the movie. I can not recommend 3D as a viable movie technology yet; it is still more distracting than elevating. Skip 3D for now. The visuals will be more stunning without it.

Yes, this movie has some nice effects, definitely stealing or paying homage to Cyriak and Inception, etc. However, the rest of the set design in this movie is extremely cheesy - dressed up like a Disneyland parody of Nepali culture. The same goes for the costumes. I know they have to reference the comics, but they are really lame and should have taken more liberties to refine or update the characters. They pattern the fabric like the repetitious landscapes, which can work but just doesn't here. They look like they are dressing up as halloween costumes of themselves.

How is the dialogue? Really bad. Maybe intentionally bland and simple? At one point in the movie, a character says something like, "You don't choose a relic (weapon), it chooses you." Late in the movie, another character says, "Pick up a weapon (the relics)! Choose wisely!" Lol. Its like they couldn't even take the time to match the cliches they were using.

How is the action? Very mediocre. Between the unnecessary "martial arts" and the cg "energy" weapons that don't do more than regular weapons (why re-create a knife in a very complex way?), it was all just kind of boring. Some movies have small glints of special action sequences, very visceral fighting, or contemporary fighting styles, but this was very very generic. It is cliche fighting + landscape bending. They never seem to integrate the two concepts very well, except in one instance in the beginning. This is a point of confusion for me - with all of these powers, why are all of these characters fighting in such lame punch-punch-kick ways? Jackie Chan was way more creative about using his environment, and he couldn't bend space and time.

So, if the dialogue is bad, the plot is just as you would expect, the jokes are mailed-in, the action is uninspired, but the visuals are decent, I guess you might as well put that Cyriak music video "Cirrus" on repeat for two hours instead. I checked my brain out at the door and was still very underwhelmed.… Expand
3 of 14 users found this helpful311
All this user's reviews
4
evokingsMay 1, 2017
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. There were moments where it was interesting, but there was no real ending, or fight worthy of a marvel comic movie, and with no real enemy to fight that could match wits with DR Strange, the whole thing felt single sided in DR Strange's favor, his attitude is I don't know what I'm doing then out of nowhere hes all like, nothing can touch me I only just got this cloak LoL...I feel you could eliminate the hollow love interest in this movie, Strange barely is in contact with her, and he shunned her out for a long time thats interesting but not pivotal to the main plot, and of course there are lots of matrix like effects in this movie that look okay, That reminds me of The "I'm here to bargain moment" ugh the lazy writing, and cost cutting, why repeat the same scene over and over again, I honestly felt this was more to annoy the viewer then door-mom-moo LoL, I wish he had a real villain, this is a kinda stupid plot a generic monk with guy-liner... We know little about this monk and his motives, in the movie we get 1 or 2 moments vary rush-revealing them and nothing else, I can empathize with villains like the joker in batman, or doctor Octavius from Spider man then this generic monk, and I don't understand the comments made in the movie about DR Strange being an arrogant doctor/person in the movie [no matter what you think or say, Hugh lorry is a million times more arrogant lol]... Strange is not arrogant, this is a paper thin statement thats presented to the viewer, there is vary little to asses this as factual in the movie,I think more development on that would make the statement less hollow, honestly he sounds like a guy that wants to do the right thing and save lives as a doctor... he kinda reminds me of Richard Kimball from the movie the Fugitive. I have not read the comics but I might like them better then this movie.… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
All this user's reviews
4
AxeTNov 6, 2016
Starts off great, and almost thought Marvel was back telling a real world human story seriously and economically enough to pull you into the fantastic and supernatural... Well it doesn't sustain! From about the halfway point it goes rightStarts off great, and almost thought Marvel was back telling a real world human story seriously and economically enough to pull you into the fantastic and supernatural... Well it doesn't sustain! From about the halfway point it goes right down the toilet dissolving into sheer nonsense of multiverses, astral planes (I was with the initial premise even so), and resulting in monotonous overly-formulaic boredom. As a superhero flick, incredible plausibility straining scenarios are to be expected but when the very fabric of reality becomes completely unreliable as it does here, the stakes are pointless and the care for outcomes or how they come about completely nullified.  

Take Superman for an example of the ultimate outlandish superhero premise:  a man who can do practically everything and is near totally invincible.  Yet because he is from another planet and the story told is executed thoughtfully and consistently on its own terms, it works. We are in suspense regarding the Man of Steel despite his too immense powers (this is regarding the comic book character and original movie series, certainly not the awful "Man of Steel" released more recently).  However with this story and its shifting natural world and changing realities regarding all space and time, it gets so ridiculous and totally out there that the audience cannot care anymore.  You cannot stay tuned to this mumbo jumbo after a certain point. So who cares about some stunning visuals?  I love the black lit alternate multiverse set pieces, but that's just a look and can never substitute for smart involving story.
Likely they stayed true to the comic book origin story with this script, however while I believe it was maybe great as a comic book in its time, this movie doesn't work at all beyond the decent beginning.

side note: Marvel's new logo sucks! They had it right with the animated flipping comic pages of the last however many years: iconic, simple, timeless. Now with the actual movie character inserts: it's already dated, too specific to recent movies, and cheap looking! Can't leave well enough alone when you're lacking in taste and analytical thought.… Expand
2 of 7 users found this helpful25
All this user's reviews
4
ShiningLionApr 11, 2019
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. "After a tragic car accident" says the synopsis, but it couldn't be more wrong. The car accident is not tragic in the sense of evoking sympathy, and it's hardly even an accident. The title character ends up mutilating himself and losing proper function of his hands by driving like a cocky idiot speeding around in his Ferrari (or whatever it is) and passing cars on a snaking cliff roadway in a no-passing zone. He gets what he deserves for playing with a car like it's a toy instead of a hazardous piece of machinery, and we never even hear if the people he crashed into were injured or died, the film is so focused on trying to make us feel sympathy for its egotistical, entitled, cocky watered-down rehash of Tony Stark. Everything about the story in this film is ridiculous, nonsensical, or outright cheesy (there's a fight scene that would not be out of place in Ghostbusters). The redeeming qualities of this film are that the visual effects and fight scenes are incredible eye-candy, some of the best I've seen in film. This movie is a safe and legal alternative to huffing air cans and staring at a screensaver, but that's about the best it does. The characters are cliche and uninteresting. Dr. Strange is actually rather unlikable, even more so than Tony Stark, with little redeeming qualities. The film doesn't really convince us that he was able to master these abilities so easily and so quickly. It seems to happen overnight giving off a really strong Mary Sue vibe for the Doc. If you've seen the anime X and the movie Inception though prepare yourself for a film that basically heavily borrows from both (whether intended or not). Oh yeah, there's also several extended and close-up shots of surgery and people getting stitches, which is anxiety-inducing and about as fun to sit through as a live birth. I honestly think a 4 is a little generous for this film since I really hated almost everything about it except the action and the visuals, but again, Marvel outdid themselves with the visual effects so I'll give them credit where it's due.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
4
spongeswiftApr 6, 2019
There are just those movies that are good, but you in particular cannot like, Doctor Strange is that movie for me. I am not a fan of Benedict Cumberbatch so my expectations weren't high but this still just wasn't a movie for me. I thought theThere are just those movies that are good, but you in particular cannot like, Doctor Strange is that movie for me. I am not a fan of Benedict Cumberbatch so my expectations weren't high but this still just wasn't a movie for me. I thought the first act was pretty good but it went downhill from there for me. This is easily my least favorite Marvel movie even if I would consider it better than most objectively.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
4
weirdcryoNov 26, 2016
I never got involved emotionally with any of the characters of the screen, a waste of great actors in meaningless performances because of how limited their rols are, the only character with enough time to grow on people (Stephen Strange)I never got involved emotionally with any of the characters of the screen, a waste of great actors in meaningless performances because of how limited their rols are, the only character with enough time to grow on people (Stephen Strange) missed me completly.
The story is interesting but it could definitely be developed more as a tv show making characters more engaging, as film, it felt rushed and as a missed oportunity that doesn't deserve a second watch.
The visual effects are superb, the music in the other hand, as other in the Marvel Universe, is uninspiring and generic.

What bothered me the most was the wasted oportunity of having great actors and not give their characters a correct development, specially Mads Mikkelsen.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
All this user's reviews
4
moothemagiccowJan 28, 2017
This is an incredibly cheesy fantasy movie that gets a pass because it's from Marvel.
The first scene had me laughing out loud at the wizards in bad costumes running through modern-day London. At least Harry Potter had the sense to tone downThis is an incredibly cheesy fantasy movie that gets a pass because it's from Marvel.
The first scene had me laughing out loud at the wizards in bad costumes running through modern-day London. At least Harry Potter had the sense to tone down the pointy hats and robes. The costumes blend in during the temple scenes, but Strange's iconic outfit and hair still looks silly.

The plotholes are really too many to count. You can turn back time to save X, but not Y. Strange is a novice getting lucky in a fight for ten minutes, while a pro is dead in seconds. Then said novice is fighting for the planet fifteen minutes later and doing exceptionally well. People walk on walls to attack him, well, just because they can, I suppose. Strange's friends show up to help in seconds... or sometimes they arrive after everything has gone wrong.

The romance subplot is forced. His love interest starts out as someone for the doctor to talk to, and instead of being left behind as the story enters a fantasy realm, is the only on-call surgeon in all of New York City, which Strange conveniently finds himself returning to over and over. She's then relegated to gags where she's surprised at his superpowers.

Cumberbatch's American accent is cringe-inducing. I see no reason why they couldn't just let the character be English. The sequel setups and hamfisted mentions of other Marvel movie characters will also make you wince.

A plethora of CGI scenes seem more useful in describing an acid trip than serving any real use for the movie. They drag on just like the glut of fight scenes against faceless warriors with no lines and identical outfits. Even the main villain gets no more backstory than "disciple who lost his way." The monstrous force he's summoning? Well it likes eating planets, and hungers particularly for Earth. Why? Well that's not important right now. Maybe I'm being nostalgic, but even the 2007 animated movie handled the story better than this. The saddest part is the movie's attempts at humor. Sometimes it works - Strange's sight gag of lifting library books was a great scene - but most of the jokes seem like the work of a Disney Channel writers' room. When they get something that might be worth a chuckle, they run it straight into the ground.

The movie wasn't great, but it had the occasional bright spot, and it wasn't boring enough to shut off.… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful12
All this user's reviews
4
Judge_ReddNov 14, 2016
I really enjoyed the special effects. This film clearly had a high production budget and reminded me of Inception. Still, while the actors did a fine job, I became a little disappointed with the clunky character development of theI really enjoyed the special effects. This film clearly had a high production budget and reminded me of Inception. Still, while the actors did a fine job, I became a little disappointed with the clunky character development of the protagonist and shallow reasoning of the characters. I feel like I could have taken 10 restroom breaks and come back without having missed anything of substance.… Expand
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
4
hassallNov 6, 2016
I liked the movie but the story was a bit weak and i wanted more from the bad guy. I feel like marvel is just coping the comic books they did years and put them into movies, the movie wasnt bad wasnt good
0 of 3 users found this helpful03
All this user's reviews
Page:
More From This Movie

72 Critic Reviews

8.0 User Reviews

Details & Credits|Trailers

Current Movie Releases
By MetascoreBy User Score
1 77 Project Hail Mary
2 75 Send Help
3 73 Hoppers
4 72 The Sheep Detectives
5 68 Crime 101
SEE ALL
Essential Links
New on Amazon Prime Video
New on Netflix
Coming Soon to DVD/Blu-ray
SEE ALL