Review by John M. Delia, Jr.
After the Multiverse experience we all rode during “Spider-man: No Way Home” the adventure is just starting to warm up as these Marvel characters embark on a journey from which they may never return. Needs and desires fuel this horrific undertaking that gives us a new meaning to alter-reality as we experience Marvel’s version of traveling to different dimensions. Unlock Alternate Realities When ‘Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness‘ Arrives July 26 on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray and DVD.
Having many magical abilities that we keep on discovering as new installments of these fantastic characters are created, Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) meets America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) in his dreams and then actually in person. In his attempt to save her from hideous creatures he discovers that she has the ability to teleport from one universe to another. America, who has the power to travel between dimensions, originates from another universe known as the ‘Utopian Parallel’. Her ability is so attractive that many different beings are attempting to steal her powers.
Wanda Maximoff (Elizabeth Olsen) is still struggling after the death of Vision and the world she created in the Wanda Vision series. She longs for the life of a family and the two boys she sees every night when she sleeps. When Doctor Strange and America, along with Wong (Benedict Wong) locate Wanda the adventure really begins.
Director Sam Raimi does a spectacular job putting together this very magical and mystical journey that brings these characters on a ride through these fantastic special effects into the many different worlds involved in the Multiverse. The storyline did have its moments to where the dialog became a little involved, but he managed to keep the narrative going in the right direction. Sam also included some horrific scenes that brought a little horror and suspense to the film and gave the audience a different perspective toward a Marvel made movie.
BONUS FEATURES on the Home Video release*:
Featurettes:
“Method to the Madness” – Join various crew members and Marvel employees in interviews as they discuss their love of Sam Raimi and all the details of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness that make it quintessentially Raimi.
“Introducing America Chavez” – In this short and fun profile piece, we’ll learn about America Chavez’s humble beginnings in the comics. We’ll meet Xochitl Gomez and discuss the complications her character’s unique power presents for the future of the MCU.
“Constructing the Multiverse” – Writing a feature film for Marvel is no easy task. In this playful yet informative featurette, we’ll dive into the challenges that writer Michael Waldron faced in creating the twisting and turning story of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
“Bloopers” A Gag Reel – Take a look at some of the fun outtakes on set with the cast and crew of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.
“Deleted Scenes”
-A Great Team – A journalist questions Doctor Strange’s integrity.
-Pizza Poppa – Bruce is relieved when Doctor Strange’s spell ends.
-It’s Not Permanent – Bruce tries to accuse Doctor Strange of being an imposter.
“Audio Commentary” View the film with audio commentary by Sam Raimi, Richie Palmer, and Michael Waldron.
*bonus features vary by product and retailer
This very enjoyable tale brings you on a rollercoaster ride that will definitely entertain and show you another viewpoint into this world. Moving from the many universe dimensions was well played and thought out and keeps you involved with these interesting and lovable characters.
Final Comment: I based my grade on the amazing special effects, remarkable storyline, and brilliant performance.
Final Comment: I based my grade on the amazing special effects, remarkable storyline, and brilliant performance.
Stars 3.5 out of 5 Stars
Additional Film Information
Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Elizabeth Olsen, Benedict Wong, Chiwetel Ejiofer, Xochitl Gomez, Rachel McAdams, Michael Stuhlbarg, and Patrick Stewart
Directed by: Sam Raimi
Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, Horror, and Sci-Fi
MPAA Rating: Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, frightening images and some language.
Running Time: 2 hours and 6 minutes
Release Date: July 26, 2022
Distributed By: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures
Release In: 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, DVD
Writer, critic, film editor John Delia, Sr. has been on all sides of the movie business from publications to film making. He has worked as a film critic with ACED Magazine for more than 20 years and other publications for a total of 40 years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Florida. John is a member of the Southeastern Film Critics Association and Critics Association of Central Florida Send John a message at jdelia@acedmagazine.com
