Concerns regarding Benedict Cumberbatch’s comments about Avengers: Doomsday are mitigated by the success of the two highest-grossing films within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).With the release date of Avengers: Doomsday just over a year away, anticipation continues to build as more details emerge about this eagerly awaited installment. The cast, which includes heavyweights like Robert Downey Jr.and Chris Evans, has been partially revealed, alongside insights into the script and production timeline.
As fans look forward to the return of Earth’s Mightiest Heroes, the slate of Marvel films in 2025 is set to introduce a new roster of iconic characters. However, one prominent MCU figure may not be present this time around. Benedict Cumberbatch indicated his involvement in Avengers: Doomsday would be absent, a revelation that did little to temper excitement due to Marvel’s adept handling of ensemble casts in previous Avengers films.
Cumberbatch Discusses Doctor Strange’s Roles in Doomsday and Secret Wars
The Iconic Sorcerer Will Only Feature in the Latter
Cumberbatch recently opened up in an interview with Variety about his character’s trajectory in both Avengers: Doomsday and its sequel, Avengers: Secret Wars. He confirmed that Doctor Strange will not appear in Doomsday, quipping, “Is that a spoiler? F*** it!”However, he emphasized that the Master of the Mystic Arts will play a significant role in the 2027 sequel.
The actor explained that his absence in Avengers: Doomsday is a direct consequence of changes in the storyline following Jonathan Majors’ legal issues. This shift has led to a reorientation of the narrative direction for Avengers 5, now focusing on Robert Downey Jr.’s Doctor Doom, which does not involve Strange’s character. Yet, Cumberbatch was quick to assure fans of Strange’s pivotal role in the upcoming Secret Wars, stating, “He’s quite central to where things might go.”
The Success of Avengers: Infinity War and Endgame Demonstrates the Potential
The Russo Brothers Excel at Ensemble Casts
While Cumberbatch’s absence from Avengers: Doomsday as Doctor Strange may be surprising, I remain optimistic for several reasons. The Russo Brothers, who are helming both Avengers 5 and 6, have an established reputation for navigating large ensemble casts successfully. Their directorial efforts in both Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame received high acclaim, even when several key characters were missing during pivotal moments.
For instance, notable figures like Hawkeye and Ant-Man were absent in Infinity War but made significant returns in Endgame, integral to the plot with their Time Heist endeavor to retrieve the Infinity Stones. Additionally, the reduced cast in Endgame, caused by Thanos’ infamous Blip, meant even iconic characters like Doctor Strange had minimal on-screen presence during the film’s final act.
Cumberbatch’s comments suggest a structured approach akin to what was seen in Avengers: Infinity War regarding character management. I have confidence that the Russo Brothers will replicate their past success, ensuring that character arcs remain undisturbed. Paradoxically, Cumberbatch’s non-involvement may allow Doctor Strange to shine brighter in future storylines.
New Opportunities for Doctor Strange Beyond Avengers: Doomsday
A Third Solo Adventure for Strange is on the Horizon
This newfound space for Doctor Strange may pave the way for a third installment in his solo series. Enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting news about this potential sequel since the events of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. In his recent interview, Cumberbatch highlighted Marvel’s eagerness to develop a third movie, indicating they are keen to hear his thoughts on direction, potential directors, and applicable comic inspirations.
The absence of Doctor Strange from Avengers: Doomsday could elevate the significance of Doctor Strange 3, potentially positioning it between the releases of Doomsday and Secret Wars. This standalone film could offer a complete narrative surrounding Doctor Strange, perhaps continuing the story from its post-credit scene featuring Charlize Theron’s Clea. Such a release could also serve to set expectations ahead of Strange’s ultimate return in Avengers: Secret Wars, much like Ant-Man and the Wasp positioned Ant-Man for his comeback in Endgame. Clearly, the future of Doctor Strange in the MCU is filled with exciting possibilities, and I believe Marvel Studios will adeptly realize this potential.
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