Opinion: Doctor Strange a predictable hit

Once again, Marvel Studios has shown us that when it comes to superhero movies, they are supreme. Doctor Strange has hit theaters, and after the let down of recent Superhero movies, it is a must see for sure.

For those not aware, Doctor Strange follows the story of Dr. Steven Strange, played by Benedict Cumberbatch, a skilled neuroscientist who after getting into a car crash, loses the majority of motor functions in his hands. He then goes on a journey across the word to regain control of his hands, but along the way gains the ability to use magical powers and has to use them to save the world.

Being a Marvel Studios movie, there are some things you should expect while walking into the theater. One of those things is that the plot is not revolutionary. Marvel Studios tends to follow a certain formula for making their films, and Doctor Strange is no exception. If you have already seen a number of Marvel movies, do not expect to be blown away by the plot. That being said, the formula does work. While the plot may be predictable at times, it is still entertaining.

That is not to say that the plot is perfect. One thing that could have been presented better was the main antagonist of the film Kaecilius, played by Mads Mikkelsen. The problem is not with Mikkelsen himself, in fact he does a great job of portraying the character. The problem lies with the amount of development Kaecilius receives, which is little.

He is presented to audience as a generic villain who wants to change the world for what he believes is the better. But his methods of changing it are inherently evil, and because of that he is bad and must be stopped. Other than that, there are no defining characteristics to his character. Because of that, he is destined to be another forgot villain of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

The largest shortcoming of Doctor Strange is the love story, that has no reason for existing and feels extremely forced. It does not take much from the film as a whole though, as there is limited screen time dedicated to it. Had it been omitted from the movie, it would not have subtracted from the film at all.

Something that was amazing though was the special effects. The effects in Doctor Strange are nothing short of mind-blowing. It is clear that the special effects crew knew what they were doing as every frame of the movie looks spectacular. If I was to compare the effects to anything it would be with the lithograph Relativity by M.C. Escher. The one with stairs going off in every direction. So definitely try to see this movie in 3D if you can.

Finally if you do choose to see this movie make sure to stick around until after the movie ends. As usual there is an after credits scene. But unlike many other Marvel movies there is a second after credits scene for those who choose to stay. These scenes are not important to the plot of the movie but they do lay the groundwork for future titles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.