Following months of hype for their first film of 2016 – Captain America: Civil War – Marvel have finally revealed the first teaser trailer for their latter project, Doctor Strange. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch, the film follows the origin story of Stephen Strange – an arrogant surgeon who, after a horrific car accident, discovers how to wield ancient, mystical magic. Directed by Scott Derrickson, and also starring Rachel McAdams, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tilda Swinton and Mads Mikklesen, Doctor Strange is sure take an interesting new turn in the Marvel Cinematic Universe when it comes out in October – but what do our writers think?
“It looks different to the other Marvel films – a new direction/ breathe of fresh air from the Captain America/ Iron man/ Thor trio. Cinematography also looks promising along with the star studded cast.” – James Okoro, writer.
“I really wish I could be more excited, but I just plain can’t fathom the enthusiasm. I look forward to people doing edits with Oscar Isaac and Oded Fehr’s faces, though. To elaborate, I’m sure that Cumberbatch is going to do an admirable job in the role. It’s not his fault, I’m just very disappointed and left un-inspired by a casting choice as unimaginative and white-washing as Star Trek Into Darkness.” – Millie Cassidy, Features Editor.
“It seems now that every direction Marvel turn to, they are striking gold. I’m glad to see that they haven’t shied away from exploring the ‘alternate universes’ that made Doctor Strange so fascinating. And with a supporting cast that has Mads Mikkelsen, Tilda Swinton and Chiwetel Ejiofor, you should be in for a treat.” – Eddy Tesfay, writer.
“The first time I’ve been excited for a Marvel film for a while. Across the board good acting, editing and cinematography, while holding back on plot. Doing exactly what a teaser trailer should. The only problem is that, so far, it looks like the director is basically copying the work of Christopher Nolan to a tee, so what that does for the films originality and script will be interesting to see. Hopefully the director sets the film apart as much from the gritty blockbuster as he’s seemingly done from the Marvel films.” – Jack Gracie, Head of Design.
“I really enjoyed the trailer. The effects are good, promising to lead us into a new part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Cumberbatch is, as usual, great but I’m waiting to see more of the brilliant cast that are part of the movie. I am worried though, as it seems to be completely different from what we are used to with Marvel, but I am sure it will be a good film. Now, we just have to wait until November to watch it!” – Lisa Veiber, writer.
“My only complaint would be the lack of Cumberbatch saying Strange’s legendary catchphrase ‘Hoary Hosts of Hoggoth!’ But I guess they have to save some stuff for later with marketing still in the very early stages. Making the Ancient One female is a brave and bold move and here’s hoping Swinton can live up to the role.
Very excited by Ejiofor as I think he will make an excellent Mordo. Don’t think it will be as good as Civil War, but hoping it’ll surprise me like Ant-Man did. Time will tell.” – Robert Pratley, writer.
“Looks like a double Nolan Ripoff so far. First half of Batman Begins meets Inception. Luckily the trailer told me to open my mind, so I’ll withhold further judgement for now.” – Chris Evans, writer.
“Despite being one of the biggest Cumberfans ever, I’m not sure how to feel about this movie – or Benedict’s American accent! It can’t be denied that they’re really going for it with such a stellar cast and visual imagery though. Here’s hoping it’ll be another of Marvel’s ‘surprise’ hits.” – Anneka Honeyball, News Editor.
The Verdict: A strange trailer indeed… Despite some initial hesitance, we’re looking forward to seeing whether this unique new Marvel story works or not.
