When Benedict Cumberbatch brings the character of Dr. Stephen Strange to the big screen, he will bring the audience on a journey into a world that is different from what they have experienced in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
To date, Marvel’s movies have taken place within the corporeal realm. Even though they may have taken place in different far away worlds, they have existed in the physical realm.
In Dr. Strange, the audience will be taken on a journey into the spiritual realm. Specifically the Astral Plane, a realm where magic and the power of the mind can be infinitely more powerful than one’s physical form.
In an article from The Wall Street Journal, Cumberbatch was asked if he saw taking this type role as a risk.
“I don’t think it’s a risk because of Marvel. Marvel is a stable of bringing out ordinary comic characters and turning them into screen-like gods. It’s very different, it’s an Astral Plane. There’s a huge new element to this Marvel universe that’s going to be employed in building this story and this character. But you know, I’m really excited about it, about working with Scott [Derrickson] whose imagination is endless, and all the boys and girls at Marvel who know what they’re doing. I’ve got a few things to get under my belt first. I’ve got to do that little stage production of “Hamlet” in the summer and the Christmas special of “Sherlock,” which we start shooting in about three days’ time – Whoops! Yeah, that’s there.”
When asked about any further details, such as possible shooting locations, Cumberbatch replied by saying, “Ahh … you’ll have to wait and see. I’m not going to be eked out on any spoilers or reveals now. It’s quite a way off but I’m very excited about that spiritual dimension, obviously. It’s something that’s been a huge part of my life.”
Being a fan of the original source material can often be a catalyst for an actor or actress to become part of a particular project, but it’s not always the case. However, gaining some familiarity with the character is a must to deliver an accurate portrayal and hopefully live up to fan expectations.
When asked if being a fan of the comic led him to take this role, Cumberbatch answered, “Growing up, no. I didn’t read many comics at all. Asterix a bit. I think that was it. There weren’t many comics in my household — [in a self-mocking voice] “I’m so deprived.” We didn’t have Marvel so much. But you can bet your bottom dollar I’m reading them now, avidly.”
Once he gets that comic reading under his belt, I have no doubt he’ll be able to get inside the mind of Dr. Stephen Strange. Just based on his previous roles, I am willing to lend such confidence. We’ll all have the chance to see if Cumberbatch will justify my faith, when Dr. Strange make his way to the big screen on November 4th 2016.