Comic book junkies will definitely peg this as old news, but a fresh, new page-to-screen installment is about to hit theaters. Directed by Scott Derrickson, Doctor Strange is the fourteenth film to join the fray in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Benedict Cumberbatch takes the lead, starring as the mind-bending Dr. Stephen Vincent Strange. Originally hailing from London, Cumberbatch is most well known for his iconic detective role with the popular British television series Sherlock (2010-2017), and for lending his velvety voice as Smaug in The Hobbit. He has also appeared as Alan Turing in The Imitation Game (2014) and Khan in Star Trek Into Darkness (2013). He’s already got a slew of fans worldwide, who affectionately refer him as the Internet Boyfriend, and create amusing memes of the actor. On the horizon, Cumberbatch is lined up to voice the Grinch and Shere Khan for two remakes set for a tentative 2018 release.

Originally created by artist Steve Ditko, Doctor Strange first hit comic books in July 1963, where he was featured in Strange Tales #110. Ego-driven and impossibly out for himself, the acclaimed surgeon Stephen Strange suddenly finds himself in a traumatic car accident. He barely survives the ordeal, yet not without consequence. His hands, which are his most prized possessions, are found to be utterly useless with extensive nerve damage. Desperate for a cure, Strange strives to find a solution at every turn, eventually crossing paths with a mystical leader known as the Ancient One.

Played by actress Tilda Swinton, there was some initial controversy surrounding her casting. In the comics, the Ancient One was originally portrayed as an old Tibetan man, who eventually teaches Doctor Strange about his inner power. However, the "Ancient One" is actually a term applied to each leader who assumes the role, and is not necessarily referring to one single character. Director Scott Derrickson spoke to Vanity Fair about the matter, who chose to cast Tilda to create more female representation within the modern comic universe. Tilda approved of the move, telling Indiewire, “I am hopeful that when they see the film itself they may understand why these particular balances were struck.” Derrickson also elaborated on the casting, adding that he definitely did not want to rehash any of the grossly negative Asian stereotypes from the original comic book series. Instead, he opted for a new iteration of the role, featuring Tilda Swinton as a Celtic version of the Ancient One.

The Ancient One isn’t the only character who got a major rework. In the comics, Wong is depicted as the manservant of Doctor Strange, but in the film, he’s anything but. In the film, he's portrayed as the librarian of Kamar-Taj, responsible for protecting the sacred texts of the Ancient One. As opposed to being a servant, he assumes a role that's closer to a mentor and teacher to Dr. Strange. “What we have done is we've created a Wong of our times. He's a drill sergeant, there's a real seriousness to him as he understands the severity of the multiverse, and what it takes to combat these dark forces. 

This librarian who's not exactly your average librarian.” Actor Benedict Wong told Den of Geek about his role.

The film has been generating tons of buzz for its extensive use of dazzling visuals and stunning effects. Peter Travers at Rolling Stone was just one of many critics who have been hailing praise for the latest Marvel flick. 

If you’re heading out to see it this weekend, remember to stay until the end of the credits for a sneak peek of an upcoming look at Thor: Ragnarok, set for release on November 3, 2017.

Written by Jade Nicolette

Twitter: @nicolette_style

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