REVIEW: Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness

From the start, this film is a fast-paced, well-thought out ride that’s rife with excellent character development and intriguing implications on the Marvel Cinematic Universe.What’s more, Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness does an excellent job of setting itself apart from all the other MCU films by way of its direction and writing while still making itself at home in the generally straight line universe, through tone and atmosphere.Directed by Sam Raimi, this is certainly the first horror entry in the universe, and it has earmarks of that throughout—a few jump scares, dizzying camera work and more-than-normal (but not overdone) gore and violence.But it also has perhaps the most heart of any entry to date, not the least of which is due to Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff. She truly steals the show and pushes the story forward in a compelling, if not crushing, manner. Certainly Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) holds his own in his titular sequel, but it is Olsen’s performance—supported by excellent writing—that carries the story.Likewise, Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer is tremendous, and so too is newcomer Xochitl Gomez as America Chavez. Gomez delivers a heartening performance worthy of a well-tenured actor and could be an asset for Marvel as a future face of its cinematic universe.The writing is well-grounded, despite tackling an abstract concept in the multiverse. But truly this movie is at its best when it focuses on the relationships and story more than the visceral action sequences. Those looking for an overly complex, deeply layered film that seeks to accomplish exhausting goals in a modest runtime should temper that hope.For parents, I will say this: The more violent sequences are brief, but slightly jarring. That said, my boys—ages 8 and 9–loved it.The bottom line: It’s a horrifying, wonderful roller coaster of a movie that I think most Marvel fans will enjoy. Watch Wandavision first. 8/10