Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is now in theaters. If you’re curious to know what to expect before you grab a popcorn and enjoy the film, here are some thoughts from two of our members who saw the movie early.

Rodneil: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is so appropriately titled because the movie is pretty strange for a Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) entry and it gets pretty downright mad in some parts.

Before diving in, there are a few other movies and shows that are must-watch prior to watching the film. Obviously, there’s the first Doctor Strange movie, then there’s Spider-Man: No Way Home just to keep you updated and give some context about the multiverse. Wanda Maximoff AKA the Scarlet Witch plays a big part in this movie so the Disney Plus series WandaVision is a must-watch. Then, there’s also the What If animated anthology series for examples of what events in other universes can look like.

It’s a lot. But if you’re a fan of the MCU at all, it’s safe to say you’ve been able to follow along with the movies nicely. The last two shows can be tricky though, since they are only available on the Disney Plus streaming platform. And that’s not available everywhere just yet. You can try using ExpressVPN to gain access to the shows. But we know our readers are quite resourceful and we’re sure they’ll find a way.

Now that all of that has been established, the next key information you need to know is that this movie is directed by Sam Raimi. He is most famous for helming the Tobey Maguire starred Spider-Man films of the 2000s. But his film roots saw him direct a bunch of horror movies in his earlier directing years.

His horror background comes out in full effect in one of the most tense sequences in the film. Naturally, we won’t spoil it, but it’s so perfectly executed that you might even wonder if you’re actually watching an MCU film. It’s easily one of the highlights of the film that even mentioning it here won’t lessen its value at all.

But I’m getting ahead of myself, what exactly is the movie about? It follows Doctor Strange (played by Benedict Cumberbatch) after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. We’re immediately introduced to another key character of the movie — America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez). She’s the key cog in this movie since her powers allow her to travel through multiverses. And the film’s main villain wants that power.

The rest of the movie is just Strange and Chavez trying to prevent her powers from being stolen. As seen on the trailers, the Illuminati does make an appearance here. In the comics, the Illuminati is a council of top-tier heroes who make “difficult decisions” in certain situations. They famously sent the Hulk to space which kicked off the Planet Hulk storyline. In the MCU, they make their first appearance as multiverse variants. And what can I say, you will absolutely sh*t your pants in the uncanny and fantastic members-reveal of this version of the Illuminati. I’ll leave it at that.

Other than the horror aspect, this might be the MCU’s bloodiest film to date. Some scenes are straight up stuff you don’t normally see in the MCU. Parents trooping to the cinemas with their children, be ready to cover your children’s eyes.

Overall, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, is an enjoyable flick. The MCU actually tries a few different things here, thanks in large part to director Sam Raimi. Here you’ll find a good mix of the usual MCU formula mixed with unexpected styles that work quite well with the story. I also think it steers clear from the usual MCU pitfalls of a forgettable villain and a third act that’s just a big CGI battle. Don’t get me wrong, there’s still plenty of CGI here but it enhances, rather than distracts from the heart of the story.

P.S. Elizabeth Olsen who plays the Scarlet Witch is superb in this movie.

MJ: I’m no fan of Marvel films, but I’ve been deeply immersed in the storyline — thanks to friends who try their best to invite me during screenings.

I got a ‘pretty’ privilege, being able to watch Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness as early as May 3rd, which was the first-ever screening in the Philippines and across the globe.

It coincided with the reopening of the IMAX Theater, giving me the opportunity to watch the esteemed film in 3D. Moreover, it was the first time I went out of my home to watch a movie in theaters since the pandemic struck. Strangely, it was an eventful experience.

Hearing the chants, screams, and uproar out of excitement inside the cinemas brought back memories of Avengers: Endgame — what was considered the closest thing we’ve got to world peace.

The enthusiasm of every moviegoer with me during the special screening carried over the expected hype for Doctor Strange. What we’ve seen from the breathtaking trailer is entirely different from what you’ll see when you watch the film.

It was a mixture of action, adventure, thriller, and a bit of a drama. There was a rollercoaster of emotions — heart racing from excitement, shrill screams, and gut-wrenching punches caused by earnest lines from Doctor Strange, America Chavez, Wanda Maximoff, and even Christine Palmer (Rachel McAdams).

It got me pondering about my decisions, mostly themes relating to the film’s plot about different universes. In short, multiverses. Did I make the right decision? Am I really happy right now? Did the other me on Earth-838 end up with the person I considered as the one that got away?

Emotions aside, the film was rich in funny banters that balanced the intense and raw scenes that exhibited Elizabeth Olsen’s prowess in acting. Whoever cast her did a great job because we have a Scarlet Witch to adore.

Despite not being able to thoroughly follow What If and WandaVision, my date during the advanced screening gave me a YouTube recap highlighting the most important moments that might be helpful in keeping up with the film. Indeed, I was able to catch on to the characters introduced since my memory was refreshed and I gained important information about the story preceding the plot.

What could possibly shock you is how closer Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is to a horror film than your familiar Marvel flick. Regardless, it’s a fun movie to watch with or without someone else. The visuals are breathtaking, and the story will surely keep you on your toes throughout the duration of the movie.

If I wasn’t invited for a special screening, I would still go out of my way to watch Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, even if I wasn’t a fan. But after watching, I think I’m starting to consider myself one.

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