Doctor Strange (2016): Scott Derrickson's Psychedelic Masterpiece

Doctor Strange introduced the mystical side of the MCU with stunning visuals. Director Scott Derrickson brings horror sensibilities to a superhero origin story, crafting a film that's visually distinct from anything before it. Benedict Cumberbatch is perfectly cast as Stephen Strange, an arrogant neurosurgeon who loses his hands in a car accident and discovers the mystic arts. The film's strength is its exploration of ego and humility—Strange must learn to surrender control to become a master. The visual effects, with reality bending and folding, are groundbreaking. The cast—Chiwetel Ejiofor as Mordo, Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer, Tilda Swinton as the Ancient One—is excellent. The film introduced the Time Stone and set up Strange's role in Infinity War. The post-credits scene teased Thor: Ragnarok. Doctor Strange expanded the MCU's scope and introduced a new kind of hero. Doctor Strange is available on Disney+ Hotstar. For free viewing, many mobile plans include Disney+. Digital rentals are available on YouTube Movies and Apple TV. The film is also broadcast on television channels.