Marvel casts a spell on audiences with ‘Doctor Strange’

Sarah Baker

Image by Sarah Baker.

Superhero movies are the new big thing. Iron Man, Thor and Captain America have starred in both individual and group films. Now Marvel is bringing the world of magic back once again in Doctor Strange.

The film focuses on Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch, Sherlock), a once brilliant neurosurgeon, after a car accident leaves him unable to use his hands. Strange travels to India to learn from the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton, We Need to Talk About Kevin) to regain function of his hands. Strange finds himself mixed into the world of magic and mystery. Aided by ancient relics, Strange must fight to save the planet from the ultimate evil, Dormammu (voiced by Benedict Cumberbatch).

Doctor Strange opened on Nov. 4. Receiving a 90 percent positive rating from fans and critics alike on Rotten Tomatoes, Doctor Strange is “Certified Fresh” for audiences.

This film stands up with the other great superhero movies from recent years. Doctor Strange takes audiences through the highs and lows. Filmmakers balanced thrilling action and touching moments well. The actors fit seamlessly into their characters, making the world seem more realistic.

The hit-home point of the film is that Doctor Strange was just an ordinary man. He wasn’t a god like Thor or genetically altered like Captain America. Strange was a regular person who stumbled into greatness. This resonates with audiences everywhere because it means everyone is a little bit of a superhero.