Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness: Spoiler-free Review
Are you happy? This is a question posed in Sam Raimi’s Dr. Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022). Happiness is secondary, when your responsibility is protecting the universe. But that’s not fair. Why should one’s happiness be tossed aside, when they have the ability to sacrifice everything to attain it? These are the opposing ideals presented in Multiverse of Madness.
Sam Raimi has not directed a feature film since 2013’s Oz the Great and Powerful, so to see him back in the director’s seat is quite exciting. His signature early 2000’s style transitions, and classic horror camera directing fit well in this adventure-horror amalgamation. I have never seen the combination of adventure-horror, and dare say it hasn’t happened before Multiverse of Madness. Raimi decided to take what is obviously an adventure script, and gave it a horror makeover. This is surely the goriest PG-13 Marvel film to date. Almost every horror trope can be found in this film, from jumpscares to slasher and even zombies and evil creatures (though, some of the special effects, makeup and CGI, ended up looking a little goofy). Yet, since it is paired with an adventure story, it is not as dread-inducing as many horror films are, though some scenes do get close. However, my friend might not agree, as she lovingly parted with me at the theater with, “I’m going to have nightmares tonight.” So, be warned.
While I would call this an adventure-horror, the film still has a significant amount of action in it, and with the inclusion of sorcery and magic, this is taken to another level. The Marvel Cinematic Universe can often fall victim to the over-use of cutting during fight scenes, and there is not much of that in this film. Another thing to note is that while this is a Dr. Strange film, there is still also a good bit of hand to hand combat, making for a good change of pace considering this film has very few slower moments.
As far as Michael Waldron and Jade Bartlett's screenplay goes, however, I found myself underwhelmed with the story presented. Dialogue was generic, and it was fairly predictable from scene to scene. The amount of times I knew exactly where the story was going, guessing deus ex machina moments and what I’m sure was meant to be witty dialogue, got a little ridiculous. Considering how hyped up this movie was, it was fairly to the point. There aren’t too many characterization moments, and what could be considered characterization felt undeserved. Since many other MCU films have had an extended runtime recently, the two hours and six minutes of Multiverse of Madness leaves a lot to be desired. What really kept me intrigued was the camerawork, fight choreography, transitions and the genre integration. A director can only do so much with an “okay” script. Now, this isn’t to say there aren't moments that brought me genuine surprise and excitement. The MCU loves its easter eggs, and they sure pay off here for longtime Marvel fans.
Regardless of the subpar script, Benedict Cumberpatch and Elizabeth Olsen might as well be their characters. Each of the frontrunners of this film were able to play many versions of their characters as different entities so well, that they give Nina Dobrev a run for her money (bonus points if you get the reference). Stephen Strange and Wanda Maximoff are two sides of a coin, each just out of reach of happiness, and you can see it in everything they do. Though, we all knew these two know their respective characters very well. Newcomer America Chavez (played by Xochitl Gomez) brings something new to the table. It is no secret the MCU is gunning for a Young Avengers adaptation in the future, but America’s inclusion in this film is much more intertwined in the story than many other young heroes we’ve seen so far. Her powers are extremely interesting, and can change the course of possibility for the MCU forever. My only complaint is that we needed more of her character. Gomez was able to hold her own against these seasoned actors, and I am excited to see more of her in future projects.
One of my favorite aspects of the film aside from camerawork, was the soundtrack. There is a specific moment where the music is truly highlighted and horror fans will get a kick out of the use of "tropey" horror piano chords. It's a fun addition that many will appreciate.
In the end Raimi left his last Marvel project with less than stellar feelings, but I do think the director has well deserved this comeback. I hope he continues with big projects, and I expect to see a proper horror film from him soon.
