'Doctor Strange' has been described as 'dark and psychedelic' and was likened to the works of artist M.C. Escher. The upcoming film will feature Benedict Cumberbatch's Sorcerer Supreme battling it out with rival sorcerer Chiwetel Ejiofor's Baron Mordo.
According to The Guardian, the film's cinematographer Ben Davis described the upcoming addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) as "Marvel's Fantasia". He revealed this interesting little tidbit at a BAFTA masterclass. He said, "DPs [directors of photography] always love the word 'dark'. The trouble is that most producers don't like dark... I described it as Marvel's Fantasia because it's so out there and different to everything else that they've done."
He also admitted that his vision was inspired by M.C. Escher's unique graphic work that is largely celebrated even until present times. Escher's illustrations were largely mathematical and contributed much to science as well as art. They were also abstract and explored dark, mind-expanding aspects of the human imagination. Perhaps this is what Davis is aiming for in the coming Marvel project. The British cinematographer is well-known for work in past films 'Avengers: Age of Ultron', 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel' and 'Kick-Ass'.
In an article by ComicBook.com, the film was also reported to feature the dark and supernatural side of the MCU. It will delve in occult elements, magic, astral planes and parallel universes. Leading man Cumberbatch dropped this hint in the recent Disney D23 Expo in Anaheim when he appeared in a prepared video message during the 'Doctor Strange' unveiling announcement. Some concept art of Cumberbatch as the titular character were also made public including one with him sporting greying facial hair as well as a colorful superhero costume.
According to Hypable, Cumberbatch made public what to expect for the comic book adaptation saying it will feature "girls, cars, explosions, a bit of astral projection... the usual fare." He is set to star alongside '12 Years A Slave' star Chiwetel Ejiofor who will be portraying Doctor Strange's arch nemesis Karl Amadeus Mordo a.k.a. Baron Mordo. Tilda Swinton is set to play the Ancient One while Rachel McAdams is rumored to play Linda Carter a.k.a. Night Nurse.
'Doctor Strange' will be released on October 28, 2016 in the United Kingdom and will make its debut a week later on the 4th of November in the United States. It is based on the comic book story by Steve Ditko, directed by Scott Derrickson of 'Sinister' and 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' fame, and produced by Kevin Feige who is also the president of Marvel Studios. It will be the second film in Phase Three of the MCU.
Join the Conversation