See it at the Movies

DOCTOR STRANGE

Posted

DOCTOR STRANGE

(Joyce) * * ½

(Don) * * *

(More superhero stuff)

Critics, friends, Rotten Tomatoes and Marvel Comics fans have been raving about the latest in the Marvel Comics gallery of superhero movies, "Doctor Strange.”

I must admit that the special effects are extraordinary and Benedict Cumberbatch makes for a convincing Doctor Strange, but I found the back story about how the brilliant surgeon turned into a superhero to be filled with more of the same endless battles and chases that make up this genre.

Joyce just didn't like all the noise and confusion. Admittedly, this is not her kind of movie. She was lured to see it because of the hype and Cumberbatch.

Doctor Strange survives a major car crash that leaves his hands unable to be repaired, ending his career. Unable to accept the tragedy, he looks to unorthodox spiritual teachings by the Ancient One (Tilda Swinton) in Nepal. Magical events occur as he is trained to use his inner spiritual powers, making for some weird effects.

Meanwhile, we have the weirder outside forces attacking him and the world, setting the scene for those endless battles and mass destruction. There is some subtle humor, especially in the dialogue between Strange and the librarian Wong (Benedict Wong) who becomes a part of his training. Once Dr. Strange establishes himself as a true superhero, the movie has no place to go but more battles with the bad guys.

Stay for the credits when you get a glance at Dr. Strange talking to an unlikely superhero about an upcoming adventure. Another scene follows the end of the credits.

Rated PG-13, with lots of action, violence and super strange special effects. 

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here