Marvels Doctor Strange is the fourteenth entry into the Marvel Cinematic Universe and manages to stand on its own in a unique way. While having clear and strong connections to the larger cinematic universe it feels like it could stand alone and doesn’t use anything else as a crutch.

The character of Doctor Stephen Strange is similar to Tony Stark in many ways but is significantly more ignorant. Benedict Cumberbatch perfectly encapsulates the character and gives this performance his all. It is emotional and heartfelt throughout. Specifically there was a scene he had with Rachel McAdams that was filled with so much emotion and was a welcomed surprise.

The rest of the performances were amazing as well. Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo was had the most interesting arc through the film next to Strange. The direction that his character may go in is intriguing to say the least. The standout despite all the controversy is Tilda Swinton as The Ancient One. She was so unbelievably bad ass in every scene. Every scene with Swinton has you in anticipation for something wise, ass kicking or just down right cool to happen.

The story is great and suffers from minimal issues such as, a weak and paper thin villain. Mads Mikkelsen is a terrific actor and adds as much gravitas to the film as he can with the material that he is given. Yet it still isn’t enough to having a lasting impact like Heath Ledgers the Joker in The Dark Knight. Aside from the villain the only other complaint is that it isn’t clear what the timeline is for the movie. Did it happen in a matter of weeks? Months? Years? It isn’t made clear and that would add just a bit more context that would be a nice cherry on top of this cake that is Doctor Strange. Aside from those complaints the way this story starts off as your typical Marvel origin story but quickly becomes unique through the stunning visuals. Before moving on I want to mention the climax of the film which was so different from anything I had ever seen before. It was clever and refreshing compared to most comic book movie climaxes.

Visuals like mentioned previously are stunning. Watching the scenes where Strange goes through multiple dimensions are breathtakingly beautiful. These sequences are best experienced in IMAX 3D. The combination adds to the experience and I normally don’t care for 3D under any circumstances but in this case it added to the movie. The music in the film is also a standout compared to what we normally get in a Marvel film.

Overall Doctor Strange is one of the best entries in the Marvel universe and I can’t recommend it highly enough. It is well worth your money and worth spending the extra money to see it in IMAX 3D.

I give Doctor Strange a 9/10.

Have you seen Doctor Strange? What are your thoughts about let me know in the comments or by starting a conversation with my on twitter and instagram @nerdycasual. Thanks for reading and take care.

All images belong to Marvel Studios.