Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures | Release Date: November 4, 2016
8.0
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Generally favorable reviews based on 2062 Ratings
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1,747
Mixed:
227
Negative:
88
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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
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7
TheRavingTimesNov 4, 2016
Doctor Strange is a thrilling movie with its breathtaking visuals and effects along with a thrilling origin story of a greedy doctor turning himself into a hero. The plot can be confusing and a lot of the main characters are eitherDoctor Strange is a thrilling movie with its breathtaking visuals and effects along with a thrilling origin story of a greedy doctor turning himself into a hero. The plot can be confusing and a lot of the main characters are either underdeveloped or never seem to have any importance within the plot save for Doctor Strange and the Ancient One. I've also had some issues with some minor plot holes ranging from an untrained wizard fending off one of the world's greatest threats to the time-loop paradox, but overall it leaves a lot of potential for future installments in the MCU involving Doctor Strange. Expand
3 of 5 users found this helpful32
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9
KenmeiNov 4, 2016
A very different movie then the previous Marvel Universe stories, DS almost had more in common with Harry Potter then anything that's come before it with Marvel in the title. Dr. Strange is not a very well known character and it's prob whyA very different movie then the previous Marvel Universe stories, DS almost had more in common with Harry Potter then anything that's come before it with Marvel in the title. Dr. Strange is not a very well known character and it's prob why there was very little hype for this movie. But they did very well for including a very high profile magic user to the MCU and with a good movie. The special FX were very good and I got a feeling of watching Inception at some parts. I've heard this movie is terrific in 3D, if you can stand to watch it like that. There was some weird character development in the movie that felt off in my book but it's a Marvel movie and I don't expect the world here. It'll be interesting to see what his role will be in the later movies, especially with him having a big role, from the looks of it, in the final Avengers movies coming up in a few years. But this movie was fun and good for a joy ride. Expand
3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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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.
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3 of 14 users found this helpful311
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7
JacobNov 4, 2016
Dr. Strange makes up for its standard story and basic characters by putting Strange and the magic front and center. Bennedict Cumberbatch brings the character of Dr. Strange to life commending a strong performance that I am looking forward toDr. Strange makes up for its standard story and basic characters by putting Strange and the magic front and center. Bennedict Cumberbatch brings the character of Dr. Strange to life commending a strong performance that I am looking forward to seeing in more movies. The magic is well realized leading to breath taking spectacle and creative action scenes that overshadow each other. The result is a fun movie that while nothing groundbreaking like Deadpool or Civil War is a welcome treat this year especially given the lack of fun blockbusters lately see it on the big screen if you can. Expand
6 of 8 users found this helpful62
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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.
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4 of 9 users found this helpful45
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7
TVJerryNov 4, 2016
Benedict Cumberbatch is the latest actor to enter the Marvel Universe. He plays an arrogant neurosurgeon who suffers a devastating accident and resorts to mysticism for a "cure." This results in his acquisition of superpowers and a cool cape.Benedict Cumberbatch is the latest actor to enter the Marvel Universe. He plays an arrogant neurosurgeon who suffers a devastating accident and resorts to mysticism for a "cure." This results in his acquisition of superpowers and a cool cape. Unlike many of these flicks, this one doesn't rely on typically destructive physical encounters. Instead there are trippy visual effects and cool superpowers. There are also several tedious scenes of metaphysical mumbo jumbo that stop the pace and a sometimes confusing sense of what's actually happening. Cumberbatch ably handles his character's haughtiness with depth. There's also a touch of humor to keep things from getting too self-important. Overall, it's more original and better than many in the franchise, but it's still somewhat mystifying and overly talky. NOTE: As usual, stay thru the credits for a somewhat puzzling teaser. Expand
8 of 10 users found this helpful82
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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
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8
ascedentevilNov 4, 2016
I really enjoyed Doctor Strange. It's well directed, well written and offers some superb acting from the likes of Ben and Co. Mads offers his typical "I'm good at playing evil people" roll and it all falls together quite nicely.
What stands
I really enjoyed Doctor Strange. It's well directed, well written and offers some superb acting from the likes of Ben and Co. Mads offers his typical "I'm good at playing evil people" roll and it all falls together quite nicely.
What stands out the most is the visuals which are unreal and seriously impressive, definitely one to see in IMAX 3D, truly mind bending.
The usual marvel humour follows to boot but is a tad off the mark when compared to others in the franchise.
Well worth a watch.
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3 of 4 users found this helpful31
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10
HectorInTheMornNov 4, 2016
Marvel has done it again! they made another unpopular character into a great movie. the visuals and action is so good and the story, while like Iron man, still is done very well, the villain is better than most villains I've seen, but stillMarvel has done it again! they made another unpopular character into a great movie. the visuals and action is so good and the story, while like Iron man, still is done very well, the villain is better than most villains I've seen, but still isn't as compelling as loki or zero. the batch of cumber is excellent as Doctor Strange and the casting is spot on. the music, cinematography, editing, and direction is all handled marvelously! 10/10 Expand
4 of 8 users found this helpful44
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8
NerdConsultantNov 4, 2016
Is Dr Strange good? Yes I would even say that for the most part it is even dam great. It gets its main character down well, the effects are fantastic, the action scenes are really well shot, the cast is really good, the writing is veryIs Dr Strange good? Yes I would even say that for the most part it is even dam great. It gets its main character down well, the effects are fantastic, the action scenes are really well shot, the cast is really good, the writing is very good, I enjoyed myself from start to finish and it felt like it told a complete, yet contained story, yet fitted in with the Marvel Cinematic Universe really well. The only thing that kind of holds it back is the villains, which I feel is another point where Marvel Cinematic Universe hasn’t quite got down outside of the NetFlix series, and Loki of course. The film is a really entertaining ride and I would really recommend you check it out, especially at the cinema since I fear some of it won’t play as well on DVD and Blu Ray. It’s a really great film and what really sells it is Cumberbatch in the lead role. Oh, and if you are going to see it, stick around for the credits, once again, there are 2 post credit scenes. Expand
5 of 7 users found this helpful52
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8
dkminusNov 4, 2016
Doctor Strange is exactly the film that the Marvel Cinematic Universe needed. Over the past few years, Marvel's movies have seemed to take on a certain monotony. At their very best, they're still just more of the same. Though I've enjoyedDoctor Strange is exactly the film that the Marvel Cinematic Universe needed. Over the past few years, Marvel's movies have seemed to take on a certain monotony. At their very best, they're still just more of the same. Though I've enjoyed everything that Marvel has been putting out, I've been desperately hoping for something new - some new blood to revitalize the Marvel Universe. And Doctor Strange does exactly that.

At it's core, Doctor Strange is a Marvel movie. It has the same humor, story, and characters you expect to see in a Marvel movie. But now we're formally introduced to magic in the MCU. And it's thrilling to watch. Not only is the movie's use of magic visually exciting, it has given us some of the most fun and creative action sequences ever seen in a comic book movie.

The entire cast was great. After seeing the trailers, I expected to be put off by Benedict Cumberbatch's American accent, but it didn't phase me at all. He was fun to watch, and did an amazing job at selling me on all the bizarre trips that the film takes you on. I can't wait to see him appear again in the MCU.

Doctor Strange is easily one of Marvel's best. It left me optimistic for where their Cinematic Universe is going from here.
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3 of 7 users found this helpful34
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10
Justcool777Nov 4, 2016
To some, it is an explosion of impeccable animation, CGI, and special effects. To some a hearty movie enjoyed by the family. But to me, this is all that story-telling should be. Marvel never ceases to elevate their standards even to aTo some, it is an explosion of impeccable animation, CGI, and special effects. To some a hearty movie enjoyed by the family. But to me, this is all that story-telling should be. Marvel never ceases to elevate their standards even to a character that doesn't have much fame and appeal to some folks out there.

Throughout the movie, you'll find yourself engaged with the light humor they've added especially the limitless action and thrill that comprise every scene, not to forget the gigantic smear of imagination on the side of the plate.

Unlike any other movie, this one you would want to watch on the big screen. The motive is yours but I urge you for the experience of it all. You won't ever regret your dollars spent.
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28 of 41 users found this helpful2813
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8
dannytran555Nov 4, 2016
Amazing effect , Stunning visual, and good performance .Doctor strange is another winner in MCU. If u wonder should i go see this movie the answer is yes

But sadly it still have some flaw : weak vigilante seem still Marvel weakness .
Amazing effect , Stunning visual, and good performance .Doctor strange is another winner in MCU. If u wonder should i go see this movie the answer is yes

But sadly it still have some flaw : weak vigilante seem still Marvel weakness . Anyway still wonderful movie
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4 of 5 users found this helpful41
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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.
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1 of 11 users found this helpful110
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8
EpicLadySpongeNov 4, 2016
Doctor Strange uses a perfectly suspenseful and balanced plan to make its story look new and fresh. It attempts to keep Marvel's audiences once again surprised and fill their faces with big smiles. Then again, I wasn't even hyped for thisDoctor Strange uses a perfectly suspenseful and balanced plan to make its story look new and fresh. It attempts to keep Marvel's audiences once again surprised and fill their faces with big smiles. Then again, I wasn't even hyped for this movie compared to Marvel's previous film Captain America: Civil War being released in the same year this film is released, but even if I wasn't that hyped, Doctor Strange promises to keep Marvel a great place even if you aren't even hyped for a single installment in their Cinematic Universe. Expand
6 of 9 users found this helpful63
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