BY CARTER AAKHUS

“Doctor Strange” is Marvel’s newest film in their vast array of superhero movies. I tend to enjoy superhero movies, though I prefer DC over Marvel. When this film was announced and I heard that Benedict Cumberbatch would be playing the titular character, I was mildly interested. I had never read the Doctor Strange comic books or even heard of the character.

The story is focused around Dr. Stephen Strange, a surgeon who loses the use of his hands in a car accident. Searching for a way to heal them, he travels to Nepal and discovers a group of sorcerers who protect Earth from mystical threats. They teach him to use their powers and he soon becomes forced to defend the world from an evil threat.

My anticipation slowly built as the trailers were released and early reviews for the film were very positive. The plot sounded unique and different from the average superhero film. When November 4th came and the film was released, I went to see the film in IMAX 3D. I came out of the theater feeling satisfied.

The acting and visual effects were definitely the film’s strongest attributes. Benedict Cumberbatch and Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One both do a fantastic job. Their characters were unique and layered. The effects in this movie are probably the best of any Marvel film. Many scenes are colorful and kaleidoscopic, not to mention strange.

Some of the weaknesses for “Doctor Strange” are some of the humor, the writing and the main villain. Marvel is distinguished for its light tone and humorous scenes. A lot of the jokes land well in this film but some of it is lame and does not belong. I thought that the plot was very interesting and different from anything I’ve seen but some of the scenes where characters give exposition are confusing and hard to follow.

Another problem with the writing is the weak character motivation for the villain played by Mads Mikkelson. I didn’t know what he was trying to do or why. He also had minuscule screen time. I can’t remember his name if that helps you understand how forgettable he was.

“Doctor Strange” is an entertaining, enjoyable film. It wasn’t anything amazing, but I would rank it as one of Marvel’s best.