Writer: Erny Suzira

Writer Ratings:
Overall: 4.5 Out of 5
Cast: 5.0 Out of 5
Plot: 5.0 Out of 5
Effects: 5.0 Out of 5
Cinematography: 4.0 Out of 5

Watch this if you liked: “Iron Man”

The Good, the Bad and the Strange Magician:

To non-Marvel fans, "Doctor Strange" is actually one of the least known, underrated characters in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and this is probably why the studio decided to hire charismatic actor Benedict Cumberbatch to play the titular role just so that they can pull in more viewers - and it actually works!

Cumberbatch plays a rich, brilliant, but ignorant and arrogant neurosurgeon named Doctor Stephen Strange, who seems to be just another version of Tony Stark, and sometimes he even channels a little bit of his "Sherlock" personality through his various sarcastic remarks.

Nevertheless, Cumberbatch delivers his role perfectly well, and not to mention, his American accent is very convincing. Of course, the rest of the cast is also amazing, especially Tilda Swinton. Even though her role as the Ancient One was highly debated, she still managed to carry out the role flawlessly.

The movie has a lot of wacky kaleidoscopic effects that are similar to those we've seen in "Matrix" and "Inception", but way better. The visuals are so mind-blowingly stunning that it feels as though you're high on drugs as it can really messes with your head - in a fun way!

Also, the movie has all the typical Marvel trademarks, including the random cameo of Stan Lee, as well the comedy elements which can be seen via various characters in the movie, such as the villains, the personified magical cloak worn by Doctor Strange, the comic relief side-kicks, and the titular character himself.

Overall, the film is very well-directed, properly executed, has a thoroughly written script, and moves at a very nice pace. It may not be the best Marvel movie ever, but it is definitely one of the better ones around.

Trivia:

• Benedict Cumberbatch was the first choice for the titular role.


Cinema Online, 29 October 2016