Early reviews for Marvel’s “Doctor Strange” are in, and people who got to see the film on Wednesday praised the film for its performances and visual aesthetic.
#DoctorStrange is just phenomenal. Visually one of the most stunning films in years.
— Ashley Menzel (@mrsashleymenzel) October 20, 2016
#DoctorStrange is a very good origins story, Probably the most unique Marvel one yet. Cumberbatch brings the comic character to life!
— Nuke The Fridge (@NukeTheFridge) October 20, 2016
Collider’s Steven Weintraub described the film as “unlike any previous Marvel movie,” while TheWrap’s Umberto Gonzales called it “spellbinding.”
In general, early reviews seem to be praising the performances of Benedict Cumberbatch as Stephen Strange, Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One, and Mads Mikkelsen as the villain, as well as the visual effects. However, critics are pointing out a weaker script and the fact that it is a bit “formulaic.”
The film had previously been criticized for “whitewashing” — when the film’s trailer first hit the web, fans said casting Swinton was racist because the character was depicted in the comics as being Tibetan — and Swinton is a white British woman.
“Doctor Strange” follows the story of talented neurosurgeon Dr. Stephen Strange who, after a tragic car accident, must put ego aside and learn the secrets of a hidden world of mysticism and alternate dimensions.
The film also stars Rachel McAdams, Michael Stuhlbarg, Benedict Wong and Chiwetel Ejiofor. Scott Derrickson directed.
It opens in theaters on Nov. 4, and is looking to open somewhere between $60 million and $75 million.
See the first reactions to “Doctor Strange” below.
#DoctorStrange is a stunning visual achievement. A welcome blast of weirdness that opens up the MCU. Super dug it. Maybe best viewed on 🍄🍄🍄
— jen yamato (@jenyamato) October 20, 2016
https://twitter.com/dan_man4/status/788979706439794688
#DoctorStrange isn't one of Marvel's very best, but it is still a very entertaining and visually dazzling movie with plenty of highlights.
— Eric Goldman (@TheEricGoldman) October 20, 2016
The action sequences in #DoctorStrange are unlike anything Marvel's done. There are so ferociously loopy, frenetic & nerdy, I adore them.
— Erik Davis (@ErikDavis) October 20, 2016
#DoctorStrange is SPELLBINDING! Hot movie! Great performances especially Cumberbatch as Strange, storytelling, & incredible visual effects!👍
— Umberto Gonzalez (@elmayimbe) October 20, 2016
DOCTOR STRANGE is unlike any previous Marvel movie and that’s why I love Marvel. They keep pushing boundaries and make it look easy.
— Steven Weintraub (@colliderfrosty) October 20, 2016
The action in #DoctorStrange is some of the craziest, most enjoyable yet. Definitely adds a new color to Marvel's ever-expanding crayon box.
— Haleigh Foutch (@HaleighFoutch) October 20, 2016
Screened #DoctorStrange it's unlike any Marvel film you've seen. #DoctorStrangeEvent pic.twitter.com/NBjFSbgf7o
— Christa Thompson ✨️🛩 (@FairytaleTVLR) October 20, 2016
Even beyond its insane visuals (cool stuff like you've never seen before), #DoctorStrange is tons of fun. A bit formulaic, but very solid.
— Ben Pearson (@benpears) October 20, 2016
So… I've seen #DoctorStrange. Thoughts: visually magnificent, solid Marvel structure, wobbly jokes, very impressive Benedict Cumberbatch. pic.twitter.com/gGpqieKqIV
— Ali Plumb (@AliPlumb) October 20, 2016
I should add that Mads Mikkelsen is great too. Another win for Marvel #DoctorStrange https://t.co/QFmnU26ew8
— Beatrice Verhoeven (@bverhoev) October 20, 2016
https://twitter.com/JLDlite/status/788969157115023360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw