Marvel Studios’ newest release, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness has been on the rise in fame ever since Strange’s last cameo in Spider-Man: No Way Home (2021). Dr. Strange was first introduced to the MCU in 2016, where the movie grossed over half a billion worldwide. Six years later, the fate of the multiverse is in doubt and it’s to Dr. Strange to save it.

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness follows Dr. Steven Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch), who quickly finds himself battling giant antagonists to protect America Chavez (played by Xochitl Gomez). America is a young girl with magnificent, yet untrained powers that grant her the ability to travel through the Multiverse. Meanwhile, Wanda (Elizabeth Olson) has been taken prey by the Darkhold, the book of the damned. Now fully taking upon her identity as the Scarlet Witch, she craves the chance to travel among the multiverse. Consequently, she wants America’s powers. Before long, Wanda confronts Strange and America, triggering an opening in the multiversal portal and sending Strange on a chase across the multiverse. This leads to cameos, crossovers, and more, but that is in the realm of spoilers.

Quality-wise, the film was incredible. All the simple aspects were there, such as cinematography, Easter eggs, and funny jokes. All of that helps keep the viewer intrigued. But though the film is enjoyable, it could’ve gone more in-depth about the story and given fans a little bit more to offer. In some parts of the film, it lacked the extra work and attention to detail that could’ve been major keys to the story. Xochitl Gomez in particular has a weak performance as America. And the pacing is way too fast at the beginning, losing the viewers quicker than the plot can unfold.

Even though the film lacked in some areas, it was still really good and interesting to watch and witness how it connected with other Marvel films. Though fans wanted to receive more, Marvel Studios still fulfilled in big details in the film. It’s violent and trippy and the thrill incorporated into it was awesome.

Elizabeth Olson is a standout in this film. There are times when she is truly horrifying as the villain. The emotional work and change were incredible and it helped get the full picture of all the trauma that has led to her villainy. The best part about the acting was the action shots, it was amazing to watch and see how the characters built power and fought or if they found themselves not defeating their opponent you can tell the difference between if a character is struggling or not in a battle.

The makeup and outfits were incredibly displayed. I enjoyed how depending on what universe the characters were in the makeup and clothing would change depending on the timeline in the film. It helped establish the type of universe the characters attended and gave a feel of what it was like and how it is in that universe. Each character wore a color resembling who their character is. Their colors, makeup, and outfit defined them and their signature look.
The setting of the film is definitely what sets it apart from the ordinary. It was awesome seeing the different universes’ settings and they were all super interesting and different which made it eye appealing to continue watching. The setting helps viewers know the differences between each universe and what the timeline is during the film.

If you are a big Marvel fan, this movie is a must-watch, as it sets up crucial events and plot points that are sure to change the fabric of the MCU for years. I don’t suggest listening to “pro” critics who just blatantly hate these kinds of films. Yes, the film was expected to be more detailed in the story, but it’s still a fantastic film that has multiple different aspects and connections that can connect to other Marvel films which makes it super exciting and will have you on the edge of your seat, not to mention the post-credit scene that gives goosebumps and will have you leaving the theaters craving more.