Doctor Strange is a marvelous superhero film that brings the mystical world of sorcery and mind-bending dimensions to the big screen. Whether you are a die-hard Marvel fan or simply curious about this unique character, here are a few things to check out before watching Doctor Strange.
1. Comic Books: As with any superhero movie, it’s always a good idea to delve into the source material. Doctor Strange made his first appearance in 1963 and has been a staple in the Marvel Universe ever since. Some essential comic book issues to get you started include “Strange Tales” #110-#146, which features the character’s early adventures, and “The Oath,” a standalone mini-series that dives deep into Doctor Strange’s world.
2. Origin Story: Understanding the origin story is crucial when it comes to fully appreciating the character. Doctor Stephen Strange was a brilliant yet arrogant neurosurgeon whose life takes a drastic turn after a horrific car accident. His desperate search for healing brings him to the mystical Ancient One, who becomes his mentor and introduces him to the world of magic.
3. Visual Effects: Doctor Strange is renowned for its breathtaking visual effects, which bring to life the mind-bending dimensions and sorcery. To truly grasp the impressive visuals in the film, it is worth checking out the behind-the-scenes footage and interviews with the production team. These insights will deepen your appreciation for the immense effort put into creating such a visually stunning experience.
4. Magic and Sorcery in the Marvel Universe: Doctor Strange is Marvel’s gateway into the magical realms of the universe. Before diving into the movie, explore the concept of magic and sorcery within the Marvel Universe. This will help you understand Doctor Strange’s powers, such as astral projection, manipulation of mystical energy, and the ability to create portals through dimensions.
5. Other Marvel Films: Part of the magic of the Marvel Cinematic Universe is its interconnectivity. Watching other Marvel films, such as “The Avengers,” “Thor,” and “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” will expand your understanding of the larger Marvel Universe. You’ll see how Doctor Strange fits into this intricate web of superhumans, aliens, and gods.
6. Benedict Cumberbatch: The casting of Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange was met with widespread excitement and anticipation. If you are not already familiar with his work, it is worth exploring some of his notable performances, such as his iconic role as Sherlock Holmes in the BBC series “Sherlock” or his portrayal of Alan Turing in “The Imitation Game.” This will give you a sense of Cumberbatch’s acting prowess and his ability to bring complex characters to life.
7. Multiverse and Time Travel: Doctor Strange is the gateway for introducing the concept of multiverse and time travel in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Familiarize yourself with these mind-bending concepts by exploring popular films and series that explore similar themes, such as “Inception” and “The Matrix.” This will help you grasp the complexities woven into the story and enable you to fully immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of Doctor Strange.
Doctor Strange presents a captivating blend of mysticism, breathtaking visuals, and mind-altering concepts. By exploring these aspects before watching the film, you can enhance your understanding and appreciation of this extraordinary superhero. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to embark on a journey into the realm of Doctor Strange.