I. Introduction
Doctor Strange, the Sorcerer Supreme, has been captivating audiences around the world since his first appearance in Marvel Comics in 1963. As with many popular comic book characters, Doctor Strange has been portrayed on the big screen, and fans have eagerly awaited each new installment in the Doctor Strange movie franchise. If you’re among the many fans curious about this Marvel Cinematic Universe standout, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of all the Doctor Strange movies released so far, a detailed recap of each movie, and explore why the franchise has been the huge success that it is today.
II. An overview of all the Doctor Strange movies released so far
As of 2021, there has only been one Doctor Strange movie released, but a sequel is coming soon. Here’s a list of all the movies released so far, along with their production information:
- Doctor Strange (2016) – This movie was directed by Scott Derrickson and starred Benedict Cumberbatch as Doctor Strange, Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo, and Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer. The film also featured a cameo from Thor actor Chris Hemsworth.
- Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (Upcoming) – The sequel is set to be released in March 2022 and directed by Sam Raimi. The cast will include Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff, and Chiwetel Ejiofor, reprising his role as Mordo.
Doctor Strange was produced by Marvel Studios and distributed by Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.
III. An analysis of the success and financial performance of the Doctor Strange movie franchise
Doctor Strange has been a financial and critical success for Marvel Studios. Here are the box office earnings for each movie:
- Doctor Strange (2016) – This film grossed $677.7 million worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing movies of 2016.
The film has received critical acclaim, earning a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 351 reviews.
Doctor Strange was nominated for numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Visual Effects, and won several others, such as the Hollywood Visual Effects Award.
IV. A detailed recap of each Doctor Strange movie, highlighting the key plot points and characters
Doctor Strange was the first movie in the franchise, and it focused on the origin story of the titular character. Here’s an in-depth summary of the plot:
Dr. Stephen Strange, a brilliant yet arrogant neurosurgeon, is involved in a car accident that destroys his hands and effectively ends his career. After numerous failed surgeries and treatments, Strange learns of a man named Jonathan Pangborn, who was able to walk again after being paralyzed by using a technique he claimed to have learned in a place called Kamar-Taj. Strange travels to Kamar-Taj, where he meets The Ancient One, who teaches him the ways of the mystic arts.
Strange learns that a former student of The Ancient One, Kaecilius, has stolen pages from a book that can summon the powerful being Dormammu from the Dark Dimension to bring about eternal life. Strange and his allies, including fellow sorcerer Mordo and former flame Christine Palmer, must stop Kaecilius and his followers from succeeding in their plans.
In the sequel, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, we can expect to see Strange joined by Scarlet Witch on an adventure through the multiverse, although specific plot details are being kept under wraps so far. We do know, however, from trailers and promotional material, that it promises to be a trippy, reality-bending ride that will further expand the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
V. An exploration of the role of Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and how his movies fit into the larger narrative
Doctor Strange is an integral part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and has been involved in some of the franchise’s biggest events. His involvement with the Defenders and his time-traveling in Avengers: Endgame has been significant to the larger narrative of the franchise.
Doctor Strange’s abilities as a sorcerer make him a valuable asset to the Avengers. In Avengers: Infinity War, he used his Time Stone to see one possible future out of the millions of outcomes, allowing the Avengers to come together and ultimately achieve victory.
VI. A comparison of the Doctor Strange movies with the source material in the comics, assessing how closely they adhere to the original stories and characters
Doctor Strange’s origins in the comics are quite similar to those depicted in the movie. While there are differences in the early storylines, such as the addition of Christine Palmer and her role as a love interest, the core of the character is still there. The comic book version of Doctor Strange has been known to venture into the multiverse and travel through time, so it’s exciting to see the movie franchise take on that aspect of the character as well.
The sequel, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, is also pulling from comic book events, notably the Scarlet Witch’s storylines in the comics. The movie is said to tie in with Disney+’s WandaVision, which sees the powerful Avenger journeying through different sitcom-themed realities.
VII. Conclusion
The Doctor Strange franchise has been a significant addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, bringing in new and exciting elements not seen before in the franchise. The characters, the world-building, and the spectacle of the movies have all contributed to their success. The prospect of another movie with Doctor Strange heading into the multiverse is an exciting development that will open new storytelling opportunities for the franchise.
It remains to be seen how the franchise will continue to develop, but we can be sure that the Sorcerer Supreme will continue to captivate audiences for years to come.