Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness - Movie Review

With the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) now in phase 4, fans knows what to expect. We know and love most of these characters and the new characters we have been introduced to are each as loveable as the last. After Tony Stark/Iron Man and Steve Rogers/Captain America’s death in Avengers: Endgame, many people including myself, were wondering who would take up the mantle of the next leader of the new look Avengers team. Enter Dr Stephen Strange, who has been a huge part of the MCU now for the last 6 years, making appearances in his own solo movie, making Loki fall through worlds for 30 minutes, fighting off Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame and introducing Peter Parker/Spider-Man to the multiverse in Spider-Man: No Way Home. I am a huge fan of the character and when it was announced that he would be the star of Marvels first horror film, I was overjoyed and couldn’t wait to see how it turned out. ‘Doctor Strange In The Multiverse of Madness’ was an absolute blast from start to finish, and may just be the best Marvel movie in Phase 4 thus far.

The film benefits from horror filmmaking legend Sam Raimi at the helm in the directors chair, lending his signature style and substance to the MCU. There are references here for hardcore Sam Raimi fans including a cameo from friend and life-long collaborator Bruce Campbell as a ‘pizza ball’ salesman in another universe and an appearance from the Evil Dead’s Oldmobile car that has made appearances in Drag Me To Hell, and Raimi’s Spider-Man films. The film has a visual quality that has been lacking from recently Marvel films, with fun, energised action sequences that feel very specific to the world of Dr Strange and play into Sam Raimi’s visual wheelhouse. 

Dr Strange the sarcastic, former Sorcerer Supreme, is played superbly again by Bennedict Cumberbatch. He nails the role, providing many moments of levity throughout, through his expert delivery of the comedic dialogue. He also ground the character in reality (our reality), by reminding us that even though he is a master magician, he is also a human being, with feelings. There’s real heart on display here, with Strange dealing with his love lost with Dr Christine Palmer, played once again by Rachel McAdams. Their chemistry is great and really sells their universal connection through the multiverse. Strange’s relationship as well with Multiversal traveller, America Chavez, played superbly by realistic newcomer Xochitl Gomez (The Baby-Sitters Club reboot). America gives Strange purpose in wanting to complete his mission and there is a lot of back and forth with their characters which I adored.

The real standout though in this film is Elizabeth Olsen’s villainous turn as the former avenger, turned villainess Wanda Maximoff. This evil turn has been building through WandaVision, but it comes to a head in this film, as Wanda is revealed to have been corrupted by the Darkhold, an ancient book that hopes to unite Wanda with her children from another dimension. Olsen sells the role, showing that she is capable of dismantling anyone who gets in her way. She’s truly terrifying here and easily the best part of the film. And a special shout-out to Wong, played again by Bennerdict Wong, who is just great as this character. 

The films implications for future MCU films is also massive. We are introduced to many elements that will play out in future MCU films that I’m not going to spoil here, but you need to be on the lookout throughout the film. Also, make sure you sit through the after credits sequences, as there are parts you won’t want to miss, including a hilarious cameo from Bruce Campbell again. 

Overall, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness was an absolute blast from start to finish. Filled with the Marvel action and comedy blend that the team here do so very well, but topped off with the style and substance of Sam Raimi’s direction. The two tones go hand-in-hand and the result is a fantastic time at the movies. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is now out on DVD, Blu-Ray and 4K UHD, be sure to head to your local Sanity or online to pick up your copy today! 

Buy Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness on DVD, Blu-ray & 4K UHD here!

Christopher Pattison wrote this blog post for Sanity. See more from Chris here