"A Bit Stiff": Benedict Cumberbatch Reflects On His First Doctor Strange Movie And What He Learned From Watching Tom Holland And Robert Downey Jr In Spider-Man: Homecoming

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Doctor Strange

Benedict Cumberbatch entered the Marvel Cinematic Universe in 2016 when he starred in Doctor Strange, and the Sherlock star has recently given some insight into his process of joining the larger universe. While Cumberbatch's first MCU film, Doctor Strange, did not involve many characters from the wider MCU, he has become more steadily integrated since then. Appearing in Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, Thor: Ragnarok, and Spider-Man: No Way Home prepared the actor for a larger role in the universe itself, although it appears that influence from his co-stars may have had a major impact on his performance.

Cumberbatch recently spoke to Variety, where he opened up about his influences within the universe. In addition to outlining Doctor Strange's Marvel future and confirming that the character will not appear in Avengers: Doomsday, the actor discussed his introduction to the universe and development since then. Cumberbatch spoke of his performance in Doctor Strange, calling it “a bit stiff.” He noted,“It’s hard because you have this huge apparatus around you, but it’s so important,” outlining the pressures involved with taking on this new role in an already massive franchise and universe.  

Fortunately, other projects within the universe were helpful in allowing the MCU actor to find his voice as Doctor Strange. Cumberbatch revealed that he was able to see much to imitate from the dynamic between Tom Holland's Peter Park and Robert Downey Jr.'s Tony Stark when watching Spider-Man: Homecoming, stating: “I learned a lot by seeing how at ease and improvisatory they are.” This can be seen to have led the actor to approach the role in looser, more human ways in his later appearances.

The Actor Found Greater Direction By Immersing Himself In The MCU

Doctor Strange's first appearance in the Marvel Cinematic Universe timeline did not feel especially connected to the larger universe, especially when contrasted with its sequel, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. It makes sense that Cumberbatch's approach and vision for the universe were different when he was first brought in, as he was still figuring out the shape of his character within that context. The way Strange and his magic has evolved in the series is heavily rooted in the growth of the franchise, including its other films, meaning the first installment was always set to have unique challenges.

Tom Holland and Robert Downey Jr. have some of the best chemistry in the entire series, so learning from their on-screen dynamic is also a practical approach. Looking to replicate the success that those performers were able to have - but doing that in original and interesting ways that further the Doctor Strange stories in particular - is a smart choice. The MCU has grown so large that it can now take its successes and use those as a model on which newer stars and films can look to recreate that same exciting and familiar tone and feel.

This Path Has Helped To Endear Doctor Strange To Audiences

Doctor Strange is an acclaimed film, although I might argue that Cumberbatch's role in the universe has actually improved since. With humor, charisma, and style, Doctor Strange has provided emotional weight and real character growth for the franchise since his debut, with appearances in Infinity War and No Way Home being perhaps more important for his character than his own films. Following Doctor Strange and the character's path in the franchise aligns with Benedict Cumberbatch's comments in compelling ways, and it is exciting to see where the character's path may lead in the future.

Doctor Strange

The Doctor Strange franchise is a significant part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), focusing on the journey of Stephen Strange, a former neurosurgeon who becomes the Sorcerer Supreme after a life-changing accident. The franchise explores themes of mysticism, alternate dimensions, and the multiverse, with Doctor Strange playing a crucial role in both standalone films and crossover events within the MCU.

Summary

The Doctor Strange franchise is a significant part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), focusing on the journey of Stephen Strange, a former neurosurgeon who becomes the Sorcerer Supreme after a life-changing accident. The franchise explores themes of mysticism, alternate dimensions, and the multiverse, with Doctor Strange playing a crucial role in both standalone films and crossover events within the MCU.