Many have been excited about Benedict Cumberbatch (‘Star Trek Into Darkness,’ ‘The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug ‘) being picked up to play ‘Doctor Strange‘ for Marvel Studios and now the fan favorite actor is sharing some details about the film. While November 4th, 2016 is still quite far away, it’s never too early to start getting excited about one of the next Marvel masterpieces.
After the smashing success of ‘Guardians of the Galaxy‘ it’s been quite clear that anything Marvel touches turns to gold. That being said, Cumberbatch was quite straight forward on commenting if he felt there was any risk to taking on the role of the Supreme Sorcerer.
“I don’t think it’s a risk because of Marvel. Marvel is a stable of bringing out ordinary comic characters and turning them into screen-like gods. It’s very different, it’s an Astral Plane. There’s a huge new element to this Marvel universe that’s going to be employed in building this story and this character. But you know, I’m really excited about it, about working with Scott [Derrickson] whose imagination is endless, and all the boys and girls at Marvel who know what they’re doing. I’ve got a few things to get under my belt first. I’ve got to do that little stage production of “Hamlet” in the summer and the Christmas special of “Sherlock,” which we start shooting in about three days’ time – Whoops! Yeah, that’s there.”
Having once taught English to Tibetan Buddhist monks in India and with Doctor Strange’s spiritual adviser being the Ancient One, he was asked if the film might bring him back to the Himalayas. Of course, not only is it too early to ask about that, but knowing the Marvel cone of silence on all things, it is no surprise that he responded with:
“Ahh … you’ll have to wait and see. I’m not going to be eked out on any spoilers or reveals now. It’s quite a way off but I’m very excited about that spiritual dimension, obviously. It’s something that’s been a huge part of my life.”
Asked if he would take on any of the mystic arts himself if given the chance gives us insight on his life and what may have helped sway the studio to pick him for the role.
“I meditate a lot. That’s a huge tool in trying to calm myself, get away from the crazy circus of it all, have a focused mind as well as be a kinder, considerate person in the world. I took a lot of stuff away from my experience in Darjeeling, West Bengal, right at the Nepali border. It was Tibetan Buddhist monks in a converted Nepali house in India, with a view of Bhutan. It was a profoundly formative experience at a very young age. It’s something I’ve tried to keep in my life. It features already.”
How familiar was Cumberbatch with the character of Doctor Strange and the greater Marvel Universe prior to getting the role? Well, not that much actually but he’s clearly working on catching up:
“Growing up, no. I didn’t read many comics at all. Asterix a bit. I think that was it. There weren’t many comics in my household — [in a self-mocking voice] “I’m so deprived.” We didn’t have Marvel so much. But you can bet your bottom dollar I’m reading them now, avidly.”
While I never like to hear that someone taking on a comic role isn’t overly familiar with the source material, I do feel that Cumberbatch has more than proven his acting chops at this point and think he’ll do a great job playing the part.
Are you looking forward to Cumberbatch wielding the Eye of Agamotto as ‘Doctor Strange’? Share your thoughts below True Believers!
‘Doctor Strange’ starring Benedict Cumberbatch hits theaters on November 4, 2016
Source: Wall Street Journal
