Marvel Studios announced today that is has begun production onDoctor Strange…just a few weeks after thefirstsetphotosfrom the film landed online. Regardless, the official press release gives us some confirmation of casting as well as a brief logline.Benedict Cumberbatchleads the ensemble as Stephen Strange, and he’s joined byChiwetel Ejiofor,Rachel McAdams, andMichael StuhlbargwithMads Mikkelsen(who nearly signed on to play the villain inThor: The Dark World) andTilda Swinton. Although not confirmed in the press release, it’s been reported that Ejiofor is playing Baron Mordo, McAdams isNight Nurse Christine Palmer, Stuhlbarg isNicodemus West, and Swinton is The Ancient One.
Filming forDoctor Strangeis taking place in London, New York, Hong Kong, and Kathmandu, Nepal under the direction ofScott Derrickson, the filmmaker behindSinisterandThe Exorcism of Emily Rose. The film’s official logline is as follows:
“Doctor Strange” follows the story of neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions.
“Doctor Strange” is the latest film in Phase 3 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Phase 3’s goal—over the course of four years and nine films—is to introduce audiences to new heroes and continue the adventures of fan favorites.
Kevin Feigeis producing, obviously, but Derrickson’s behind-the-scenes team is curious. In keeping with Marvel’s formula, the studio has built up a stable of craftspeople that appear to be working on various films in a rotating manner. Indeed, only one of Derrickson’s behind-the-scenes collaborators hasn’t worked on a Marvel movie before, and that’s co-editorSabrina Plisco. Serving as director of photography isGuardians of the GalaxyandAvengers: Age of UltroncinematographerBen Davis, withAge of Ultron/GuardiansalumCharles Woodacting as production designer and, keeping it in the family,UltronandGuardianscostume designerAlexandra Byrnereprises her duties to put together the costumes forDoctor Strange.
On the one hand it makes sense—these people are all well versed in how to make a Marvel movie, so why not bring them back? But on the other hand, I’d be curious to see filmmakers mix it up just a tad with a new cinematographer here or there.
Regardless,Doctor Strangeis an important film as it finally brings Marvel into the realm of mysticism for the first time, and I’m curious to see what Derrickson does within the Marvel Cinematic Universe.Doctor Strangeopens in theaters on July 23, 2025.
