Collette’s Non-Spoiler Review: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

It’s one of the most anticipated films this year. As new information dropped, new theories popped up. So, does Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness live up to its hype? The answer is yes!

It’s fair to say we were never sure of what the Doctor Strange sequel was about. We knew what Doctor Strange was up to because of Spider-Man, and Wanda was on a hunt for her children because of Wandavision, but no storyline had been released. Because of this, theories were created. Some were understandable, while others were a little out there. I won’t say anything about the plot except that it is more imaginative and bizarre than I thought. And I mean that in the best way possible.

Director Sam Raimi is known for directing arguably one of the best comic book films ever made and horror. He blends his two strengths in Multiverse of Madness and has created a beautifully horrific superhero film. Some Marvel films fail when it comes to pacing, but Raimi gets it right. He knows how to create suspense with the most minor details. There are parts where the film builds and you either get a comedic moment or a jump scare.

Raimi also understands his characters and knows how to show them off. For instance, Wanda has always had a bit of creepiness that comes with her power. In Age of Ultron, we see her take over multiple Avengers’ minds. While the movements had a creepy element, they were never executed well; they were also swept away and never seen again until Wandavision. Raimi let Elizabeth Olsen shine. Every single time she was on-screen, you couldn’t look away. Her knowledge and love for the character and his imaginative direction created one show-stopping performance.

Benedict Cumberbatch once again reprises his role and gives another elegant and calculated performance. While he is the most serious out of the Avengers, Strange has a bit of a lighter side to him after appearing in No Way Home. Rachel McAdams also reprises her role as Christine, and while she is in a lot of scenes, I feel she wasn’t utilized enough. Xochitl Gomez is a newcomer to the MCU and is an absolute scene-stealer as America Chavez. Her excitement is felt through the screen and will leave your heart filling full. I honestly cannot wait to see more of her in the MCU.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is unlike anything in the Marvel Universe. It’s full of twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat. It is bizarre and quirky but also imaginative and scary. It is surprisingly violent and has many moments that will make you jump. It does speed through some of the story, and choses style over substance in some areas. The writing wasn’t perfect. The dialogue was a little cheesy, but when you have a cast like this, it’s forgiven. There are a few surprises that will have fans cheering and some that will leave you baffled. Wandavision plays a huge role in this, so you may want to watch a few episodes to prepare.

Before stepping into the theater you have to remember not everything will be answered and you be be left wanting and needing more. The MCU wan’t built in a single movie, it took 10 years to create the juggernaut that it is today. With this film and the Disney Plus series the next phase may happen sooner rather than later, but it’s still laying out the foundation. Another thing to keep in mind is “madness” is a relative term and can take on many meanings. So buckle up and prepare to go on one wild ride through the Multiverse.