Retro Review: Doctor Strange

This is our MarvelBlog Retro Review of Doctor Strange…and there’s a Marvel character I’m not sure we’re supposed to like.

In fact, during the first season of What If…?, this character turns heel and almost devours the multiverse. Does that sound like a hero to you?

Source: Marvel Studios

Yes, Stephen Strange has always danced dangerously close to the flames, which explains why he has such a divisive reputation among Marvel fans.

In today’s retro review, I will re-evaluate Doctor Strange, which is somehow one of my least favorite MCU movies while possessing one of the best climaxes.

Source: Marvel Studios

Tony Stark by Another Name

Preternaturally gifted. Impossibly arrogant. Super-rich playboy.

All these words could describe Tony Stark, the self-professed Iron Man whose charisma anchored the first generation of the MCU.

Photo: Marvel

If it ain’t broke, why fix it? That’s the underlying thought process behind Doctor Strange, as all those same generalities apply to Stephen Strange…and Batman.

Don’t mistake the point here. Bruce Wayne debuted decades ahead of these characters, and his influence remains unmistakable in Marvel even now.

Hall of Armor Photo: Marvel Studios

In fact, an upcoming MCU series, Moon Knight, will introduce a third character along these lines. So, Marvel believes the system works.

With Doctor Strange, the story shows how thin the line between darkness and light is, especially for potentially evil sorcerers.

Source: Marvel Studios

The villain in the piece is Master Kaecilius, a former student of the Ancient One who has since decided he would like ultimate power for his own.

If that means beheading a few librarians, so be it. He’s saving a fortune on late fees, too.

The idea here centers on the dangers of blatant power grabs by evil wizards, something any videogame player understands.

Source: Marvel Studios

However, the unlikely person to stop Kaecilius is a muggle surgeon named Stephen Strange.

He has it all, including a girlfriend who starred in The Notebook and a sports car that you probably can’t even afford in Forza, much less real life.

Doctor Strange also employs the “rebel who plays by his own rules” cliché. A different surgeon at the hospital hates the good (?) doctor and rails against his practices.

Because of the rules of Hollywood, the less attractive, rules-oriented person is obviously in the wrong, even though literally every criticism he makes of Strange is valid.

That’ll teach you to follow the rules and not be naturally handsome, Poindexter!

Dude’s even named Nicodemus. Come on!

Source: Marvel Studios

The Disruption

Arrogant protagonists in fancy sports cars have a 100 percent chance of car crashes in Hollywood. It’s ironclad celluloid law.

Sure enough, Icarus flies too close to the sun while looking at a patient’s x-ray on his iPad. Soon, he’s in surgery himself and awakens to discover his hands destroyed.

Photo: Vanity Fair

Therein ends the surgical career of one Stephen Strange. Of course, like so many of us during The Great Resignation, the doctor finds a new career path.

He learns of a mystical place known as Kamar-Taj, where he might find a cure for his affliction.

Unbeknownst to Strange, he meets The Ancient One, who serves him tea and holistic logic. Also, Mordo is there.

Source: Marvel Studios

You can think of him as a self-loathing sorcerer who does magic but wants to see all magic eliminated from the universe. It’s the MCU equivalent of those heinous conversion therapy camps.

In a huge, shocking twist, Mordo will turn heel by the end of this film. And if you’re surprised by that, I don’t know how you get out of bed in the morning. The rising sun must blow your mind.

Anyway, we get lots of mystical crap wherein Strange gets his soul literally knocked out of his body, an Ancient One specialty.

Source: Marvel Studios

He also transverses the universe, watches stars explode, and rotates in the Earth’s atmosphere.

The whole thing is basically a Pink Floyd show at the planetarium, and you’re chasing the dragon. HARD.

Doctor Strange earned an Academy Award nomination for its visual effects and legitimately should have won over Jungle Book.

Disney+ has announced that R-rated Marvel films will be released very soon.

Source: Marvel Studios

Doctor Strange vs. the People with Bad Eye Makeup

The story, on the other hand, is decidedly lesser Marvel. I just cannot get past how predictable and paint-by-numbers it is.

I suspect that director Scott Derrickson recognized this fact and tried to disguise the problem through the glinty special effects.

Photo: IMDb

The casting also helps. I’ve been on the Tilda Swinton bandwagon ever since The Deep End, which I ranked in my top three for 2001.

She’s never been more entertaining or decidedly commercial than during her time in the MCU. She IS the Ancient One and makes the character compelling.

Even though Mordo isn’t fully developed as a frenemy, Chiwetel Ejiofor is one of the greatest living actors and chews the scenery here.

Source: Marvel Studios

I’d like to say that the incredibly talented Rachel McAdams is more than just The Girlfriend here, but I cannot tell that lie.

If you want to watch her act, you should pick Spotlight or Disobedience instead. She’s also terrific in Red Eye, an underrated suspense thriller.

Of course, the story lives and dies with Benedict Cumberbatch. He has since made Stephen Strange his own so much that nobody ever talks about replacing him.

Photo: Marvel Studios

I mean, we’ve got new Hawkeyes and Captain Americas and Black Widows and even a new Sorcerer Supreme. Doctor Strange remains proprietary.

This cast is so good that Michael Stuhlbarg, Benedict Wong, and Mads Mikkelson are almost incidental to it…and Mikkelson is playing the villain in the piece!

Speaking of which, Marvel continues its trend of one bad guy with several faceless underlings, only the underlings have faces this time. And terrible eye makeup.

I guess the idea is that all the evil has sucked the souls out of their bodies through their eyes or something? I dunno. It’s weird and silly and hard to take seriously.

The Salvation of Doctor Strange

Source: Marvel Studios

You can tell that I have MANY problems with Doctor Strange. Even so, I love two scenes in the film.

One involves the surgery McAdams’ character performs on Strange, the one with astral projection. It’s funny.

Also, as far as secret identity reveals go, it’s definitely the most unusual one to date. And the falling mop at the end is a REALLY good joke.

Source: Marvel Studios

Then, we watch as the Ancient One accepts her fate and passes into the next plane of existence. It’s profound, especially because she wants to watch the snow.

How relatable is that? We all prioritize those singular moments of beauty.

Still, everyone realizes what matters most in Doctor Strange. It’s the odd negotiation between Dormammu and the Sorcerer Supreme.

Photo: Forbes

Derrickson’s directorial career started with horror, as that’s where he made his bones. So, it’s fitting that he would choose a Lovecraftian monster for the end.

Strange flies into some unimaginable alien realm, the Dark Dimension, and then…dies repeatedly. The cartoon violence in these sequences is hysterical.

Somehow, Dormammu becomes the victim of this story, trapped in a time loop of murder. The fact that he’s the perpetrator, not the victim, proves irrelevant.

Source: Marvel Studios

Dormammu has lost his power and control in the Dark Dimension, and that’s what matters.

Eventually, the god-like entity capitulates because of nothing more than the concept of time.

Meanwhile, the thematic nature of Doctor Strange resonates here. He’s someone defined by his pain, and not just symbolically.

Source: Marvel Studios

Doctor Strange switches from derivative to unforgettable during those final few minutes of the film. I’m in awe of that.

However, I’m also frustrated that we didn’t get an entire movie along those lines. That’s why I’m so excited for the sequel.

Overall, Doctor Strange remains a B+ movie with an A+++ ending.

Source: Marvel Studios

And that’s our Retro Review of Doctor Strange! What did you think of the film? Let us know below! \

Main Marvel Characters Who Use Magic as Their Main Power Source

In the Marvel Universe, there are a number of characters who utilize magic as their primary power source. From sorcerers and witches to gods and demons, these characters possess an array of magical abilities that make them some of the most powerful and fascinating beings in the Marvel Universe. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the main Marvel characters who use magic as their main power source.

Doctor Strange

Doctor Stephen Strange, also known as the Sorcerer Supreme, is perhaps the most well-known and powerful magic user in the Marvel Universe. After suffering a severe injury to his hands that ended his career as a surgeon, Strange traveled to the Himalayas to seek out the Ancient One, a powerful sorcerer who taught him the ways of magic. Strange possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to cast spells, create magical shields, manipulate time and space, and even travel to other dimensions.

Wanda Maximoff (Scarlet Witch)

Wanda Maximoff, also known as the Scarlet Witch, is a mutant with the ability to manipulate reality and cast spells. Her powers stem from a combination of her mutant abilities and her connection to the mystical energies of the universe. Scarlet Witch’s powers include reality warping, energy projection, and the ability to manipulate probability. She is also able to cast spells that can alter the physical world around her.

Loki

Loki, the God of Mischief, is a powerful magic user with a long and complicated history in the Marvel Universe. As a member of the Asgardian race, Loki possesses an array of magical abilities, including shape-shifting, illusion casting, and the ability to manipulate energy. He is also a master of manipulation and trickery, often using his wit and charm to get what he wants.

Brother Voodoo

Jericho Drumm, also known as Brother Voodoo, is a Haitian houngan (voodoo priest) who possesses an array of mystical powers. He is able to communicate with spirits and calls upon the powers of the Loa (spirits of Haitian Voodoo) to cast spells and perform feats of magic. Brother Voodoo is also a skilled fighter, often using his martial arts skills in conjunction with his magic to defeat his enemies.

Dormammu

Dormammu is a powerful interdimensional entity that rules over the Dark Dimension. He possesses vast magical powers, including the ability to manipulate reality and create illusions. Dormammu is also able to possess other beings and control them, and he has a vast army of demons at his disposal. He is a formidable foe to any hero who dares to cross his path.

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Magik

Illyana Rasputin, also known as Magik, is a mutant with the ability to teleport through time and space. She is also a sorceress with the ability to cast spells and manipulate magical energies. Magik’s powers stem from her connection to the mystical realm of Limbo, which she rules over as its sorceress supreme. She is also skilled in combat, often using her sword and martial arts skills to defeat her enemies.

Baron Mordo

Karl Mordo, also known as Baron Mordo, is a powerful sorcerer and long-time enemy of Doctor Strange. Like Strange, Mordo was trained by the Ancient One in the ways of magic, but he chose to use his powers for evil. Mordo possesses a wide range of magical abilities, including the ability to manipulate energy and create illusions. He is also skilled in hand-to-hand combat and is a formidable adversary.

Hela

Hela’s black power magic is derived from her connection to the realm of Hel, the Norse underworld. It grants her immense power, allowing her to control the dead, summon spirits, and manipulate reality itself. Her powers are fueled by death and destruction, making her one of the most dangerous villains in the Marvel Universe.

In conclusion, Marvel comics and the MCU are filled with characters who use magic as their primary power source. From Doctor Strange, Wanda Maximoff, and Loki to lesser-known characters like Brother Voodoo and Magik, these characters bring a unique and fascinating element to the Marvel Universe. Magic allows for a variety of storytelling possibilities, from alternate dimensions to time travel to even bringing characters back from the dead. The use of magic also adds a sense of mystery and wonder to the Marvel Universe, with its own set of rules and limitations. As the MCU continues to expand and evolve, we can expect to see even more magical characters and stories in the future.

Marvel

10 Hilarious Marvel Characters

If you’re a fan of Marvel comics, then you know that the universe is not just about superheroes and their epic battles against villains. It’s also about the humor that is woven into the storylines, characters, and dialogue. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has given us some incredibly hilarious characters over the years. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of 10 of the funniest Marvel characters that will have you laughing out loud. These characters may not be the most powerful or the most popular, but they will definitely leave a lasting impression with their humor and comedic timing. So, if you’re ready for some comic relief, read on to discover the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe.

Marvel Comics has given us some of the most iconic superheroes and villains of all time, but it has also introduced us to some incredibly hilarious characters. From wisecracking heroes to eccentric villains, Marvel has a knack for bringing the funny. Here are 10 hilarious Marvel characters that will make you laugh out loud.

Deadpool

Deadpool, also known as Wade Wilson, is undoubtedly one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. He’s a mercenary with a twisted sense of humor, and he never takes anything too seriously. His wit and sarcasm make him an incredibly entertaining character to read, and his fourth-wall-breaking abilities only add to his comedic value.

Spider-Man

Spider-Man, aka Peter Parker, is known for his quick quips and one-liners. He’s a classic wise-cracking superhero who uses humor to disarm his enemies and lighten the mood. His relatable personality and funny comebacks make him a fan favorite and a staple of Marvel comics.

Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon may be small, but his personality is anything but. This foul-mouthed, gun-toting raccoon is always ready with a snarky comment and a clever insult. His sarcasm and wit make him one of the most entertaining members of the Guardians of the Galaxy.

Groot

Groot, Rocket Raccoon’s sidekick, is a tree-like alien who only knows how to say “I am Groot.” Despite his limited vocabulary, Groot manages to be one of the funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. His innocent charm and child-like personality make him endearing, and his comedic timing is spot on.

Ant-Man

Ant-Man, aka Scott Lang, is a superhero who can shrink down to the size of an ant. His ability to change his size is the source of many hilarious moments, as he uses it to sneak around undetected and pull off elaborate heists. His goofball personality and humorous antics make him one of Marvel’s most lovable heroes.

Loki

Loki, the god of mischief, is known for his mischievous personality and his ability to cause chaos wherever he goes. His cunning wit and manipulative ways make him a fascinating character, but it’s his sense of humor that makes him truly unforgettable. Loki’s dry wit and sarcastic comments always bring a smile to readers’ faces.

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Howard the Duck

Howard the Duck is a sarcastic, cigar-smoking anthropomorphic duck who was transported to Earth from his home planet. His dry wit and cynical outlook on life make him one of Marvel’s most unique and entertaining characters. Despite being a duck, Howard manages to be relatable and hilarious.

Squirrel Girl

Squirrel Girl, aka Doreen Green, is a superhero with the ability to communicate with squirrels. Her cheerful personality and quirky sense of humor make her one of the most endearing and funniest characters in the Marvel Universe. She’s known for taking down some of the most powerful villains in the Marvel Universe, often with the help of her squirrel sidekick, Tippy-Toe.

She-Hulk

She-Hulk, aka Jennifer Walters, is a lawyer and superhero who gains incredible strength and durability after receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner (aka the Hulk). She-Hulk is known for breaking the fourth wall and addressing readers directly, which adds to her comedic value. Her sassy personality and irreverent humor make her one of Marvel’s most entertaining heroes.

MODOK

MODOK, aka Mental Organism Designed Only for Killing, is a villain with a giant head and a tiny body. He’s one of the funniest Marvel villains, thanks to his ridiculous appearance and his propensity to monologue. MODOK’s delusions of grandeur and over-the-top villainy make him an absurd and hilarious character. His appearance alone is enough to make readers laugh, but his outlandish schemes and bizarre personality cement his status as one of Marvel’s funniest villains.

In conclusion, Marvel Comics has no shortage of hilarious characters. From the wisecracking heroes to the eccentric villains, these characters add a lighthearted touch to the often intense and action-packed world of superhero comics. Whether it’s Deadpool’s twisted humor or Groot’s innocent charm, these characters are sure to make you laugh out loud. So the next time you’re looking for a good laugh, pick up a Marvel comic and enjoy the comedic genius of these unforgettable characters.

Marvel

Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3: Where, Who, Why, and How

In the world of Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, was presumed dead after being thrown off a cliff on the planet Vormir in Avengers: Infinity War. However, in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, she is back, albeit as an alternate version of herself. The rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists. This alternate version of Gamora, along with her sister Nebula, was kidnapped by Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, and they followed the Avengers back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. Although Alternate Gamora is alive and well in the main timeline, she declines to join the Guardians as she has never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

Gamora, played by Zoe Saldaña, is a pivotal character in the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise, but she was thought to be dead after the events of Avengers: Infinity War. So, how is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3? Let’s take a look at where she is, who she is, why she is alive, and how she is back.

Who is Gamora in the MCU?

Gamora, the deadliest woman in the galaxy, was introduced in Guardians of the Galaxy in 2014. She was adopted by Thanos after he conquered her planet and killed 50% of its population. Gamora defected from Thanos’ forces and teamed up with the Guardians to keep the Kree general Ronan the Accuser from obtaining the Power Stone. She also encouraged her sister Nebula to defect from Thanos as well.

Where is Gamora in the main MCU timeline?

Technically, Gamora is dead. Thanos abducted her and threw her off a cliff on the planet Vormir, as the sacrifice required to obtain the Soul Stone during the events of Avengers: Infinity War.

Gamora | Marvel Studios’ Legends

Why is Gamora alive again?

Zoe Saldaña is under contract to play Gamora, and her character is an essential part of the Guardians of the Galaxy subfranchise. But in-universe, the rules of time travel in Avengers: Endgame created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Gamora still exists.

How is Gamora alive in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3?

During the time heist in Endgame, Nebula and War Machine traveled back in time to intercept the Power Stone before the Guardians, Kree, or Thanos obtained it. However, they created an alternate universe where an alternate version of Thanos became aware that there was a timeline in which he gathered all the Infinity Stones and snapped half of the universe dead, which caused the Avengers to time-travel to collect the Infinity Stones. After kidnapping the main timeline Nebula, Alternate Thanos and his loyal assassin daughters, Alternate Gamora and Nebula, followed them back to the main MCU timeline. Main Timeline Nebula killed her alternate self and convinced Alternate Gamora to fight for the good guys. After Iron Man sacrificed himself to snap away all of “Thanos’ forces,” Alternate Gamora remained in the main MCU timeline but declined to join up with the Guardians, having never met them or fallen in love with Star-Lord.

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In conclusion, while we don’t know what that means for Alternate Gamora in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we know she is in it.

It will be interesting to see how Alternate Gamora’s storyline unfolds in Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3. Given her unique perspective and experiences, there are endless possibilities for where her character arc could go. Perhaps she will struggle to adapt to the new timeline, or maybe she will become a pivotal player in the battle against the villainous Adam Warlock.

Whatever the case may be, fans are eagerly anticipating the release of Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 and the opportunity to see how Alternate Gamora fits into the wider Marvel Cinematic Universe. With the film set to be directed by James Gunn and featuring a star-studded cast, it is sure to be a thrilling and emotional ride for both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.