Entertainment Weekly has given us our first official look at Benedict Cumberbatch as Marvel’s Doctor Strange and it does not disappoint. Though the film is still knee deep in principal photography it’s wise to acclimate casual comic book fans to the Sorcerer Supreme as the November 2016 release carries the burden of introducing yet another second-tier Marvel character to the ever-expanding cinematic universe they’re building. With Guardians of the Galaxy helping pave the way, audiences have shown they’re flexible with new and quirky characters but Stephen Strange is a little more esoteric than the likes of Groot and Rocket Raccoon.
Under the guidance of director Scott (The Day the Earth Stood Still, Sinister) Derrickson the film is sure to play on the more mystical and macabre roots of the surgeon turned magician and it’ll be interesting to see what the anticipation escalates into for the film. In many ways it’s the most exciting Marvel project in years since it doesn’t fit into a convenient box and offers the amazing Cumberbatch a chance to flex his considerable chops. But it isn’t an easy sell, especially if Marvel Studios is looking to continue their trend of gigantic tentpole movies.
More details as they come, but kudos to Entertainment Weekly for putting Doctor Strange on the cover of their magazine.