By Jordan Hum | Copy Editor
On May 6, the newest addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) was released in movie theaters worldwide. “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness” is a spiraling adventure through unknown realms in the world of Marvel movies. Dr. Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) ensues in an exhilarating chase through different universes in order to protect the newly introduced character America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez), who possesses her own special power.
This movie is one of the most mind-bending, psychedelic visual experiences I have ever seen. Director Sam Raimi’s signature directorial style is on full display throughout the entire runtime. Despite some questionable CGI in the first act, the visual effects and cinematography are stunning, especially when the characters are traversing the multiverse. The concept of said multiverse allowed for full creativity in regard to visuals, and cinematographer John Mathieson and the VFX department did not waste their opportunity.
While not necessarily a bad thing, the story feels contained even with the room for creativity. However, the expectation of surplus cameos will leave viewers underwhelmed. The movie tends to stay within its circle of small characters. This is not the all-out cinematic experience that “Avengers Endgame” and “Spider-man No Way Home” are, but it is still very much a fun Marvel film.
Despite a PG-13 rating, I could easily see this being rated R. It is the most gruesome and downright creepy movie Marvel has ever produced. With jump scares left and right, the relentless pace and incredible action sequences keeps viewers at the edge of their seats. There has never been a gore aspect in Marvel movies, until now.
As typical for high-budget superhero blockbusters, the costume and set design are incredible. The magic-infused backdrops are visually stunning and set the stage for fight scenes filled with creativity. My favorite being a battle where Strange used physical music notes to defeat his enemy.
The score by Danny Elfman, who has helped produce iconic scores for works like “Mission Impossible,” is unimpressive. Still, it is interesting to see some rock elements incorporated into the usual heavy orchestral approach.
While the movie falls under the Doctor Strange title, it is just as much a Scarlet Witch story. Elizabeth Olsen, who plays Wanda Maximoff, gives a raw, emotional performance. Her understanding of the character adds to her portrayal as Olsen cements herself as the perfect casting choice for Maximoff.
Cumberbatch and Benedict Wong, who coincidentally plays a character named Wong, give solid performances. But more outstanding was how the actors managed to get past atrocious dialogue that kept the runtime a little over two hours, which felt both too long and too short.
Throughout the movie, there are numerous new concepts that needed to be fleshed out more with a longer run time, or cut out completely, resulting in a shorter run time. Overall I felt it was a solid, comprehensible film even if the new concepts could lead to potential confusion for some viewers.
Overall, ¨Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness¨ is not the superhero blockbuster many thought it was going to be, but it is a fun, different Marvel movie, full of enough eye candy to leave the audience amazed.
