It's official! Actor Benedict Cumberbatch is now a superhero! This after it has already been confirmed that he will star in Marvel's upcoming "Doctor Strange" movie. "Doctor Strange" was originally created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko.
"Benedict Cumberbatch has entered the world of the mystic arts," Marvel announced on its website.
Cumberbatch, who is also known for playing the role of British genius mathematician Alan Turing in the movie "The Imitation Game," was earlier rumored to be one of those being eyed as "Doctor Strange," as reported by Deadline. This confirms earlier speculations that the British actor, who is known as the lead actor in the television crime drama "Sherlock," will now be seen more in movies.
"Stephen Strange's story requires an actor capable of great depth and sincerity...In 2016, Benedict will show audiences what makes Doctor Strange such a unique and compelling character," Producer Kevin Feige was quoted in the Marvel statement.
Marvel said that "Doctor Strange" "follows the story of neurosurgeon Doctor Stephen Strange who, after a horrific car accident, discovers the hidden world of magic and alternate dimensions."
Marvel's statement also confirmed details about the film. It noted that it will be directed by Scott Derrickson, known for the movies "The Exorcism of Emily Rose", "The Day the Earth Stood Still", "Sinister", and "Deliver Us from Evil." The screenplay will be written by Jon Spaihts (although Deadline earlier noted that the first draft was written by Thomas Dean Donnelly and Joshua Oppenheimer).
A July report from MTV earlier said that Cumberbatch may not play the role as he has a play that will be showed in London. "As far as I'm aware, even if that was the case, it couldn't work out because I'm doing a little play called 'Hamlet' in London...So I don't think I could even if that was in the cards. It sounds like a fantastic project. It's a shame if I miss out, but who knows?" Cumberbatch was quoted as saying.
According to the British newspaper The Telegraph, the "Doctor Strange" role was originally being pitched to American actor Joaquin Phoenix, known for his roles in movies "Gladiator" and "Walk the Line." However, the actor reportedly refused the offer.
Huffington Post said that after Phoenix refused the deal, Marvel has lined up several other actors for the role. The names of actors Tom Hardy, Matthew McConaughey, Ethan Hawke, and Cumberbatch arose. Other names that have floated include Ryan Gosling, Jared Leto, Justin Theroux, and Keanu Reeves, Hollywood Reporter added.
"Doctor Strange" will hit theaters on November 4, 2016.
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