Benedict Cumberbatch Reveals Doctor Strange’s Major Weakness in the MCU

Recently, Benedict Cumberbatch shared his thoughts on the evolving character of Doctor Strange in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Debuting in 2016, Doctor Strange quickly established himself as a key player within the superhero realm, but Cumberbatch emphasizes that even with significant character development, there remains ample room for growth.

In an engaging interview with Japanese news outlet TV Groove, Cumberbatch discussed Strange’s journey, drawing parallels between his character arc and those of other superheroes in the MCU. He suggests that as Doctor Strange continues to evolve, he is likely to become one of the most formidable characters in the franchise.

Doctor Strange: A Powerful Figure in the MCU

Master of the Mystic Arts

Doctor Strange with Earth-838's Illuminati

Doctor Strange saying goodbye to Tony Stark

Achieving the title of Sorcerer Supreme is no small feat. By the conclusion of his first film, Doctor Strange successfully controlled the Time Stone, defeated Dormammu, and took on a leading role in the mystical arts. This journey illustrates significant growth, yet it also hints at a myriad of untapped potential. In the comics, Doctor Strange harnesses his abilities over decades, evolving into a truly formidable hero and sorcerer.

However, it’s important to note that the MCU presents a somewhat different narrative. Just two years post-introduction, Doctor Strange was reduced to dust during the snap. It was only five years later that he reemerged, during which time Wong assumed the title of Sorcerer Supreme, gaining additional experience. The animated series What If…? provides intriguing insights into the possibilities of a more powerful Strange, suggesting what might happen if he had more time to refine his skills.

A Common Journey: Doctor Strange and Scarlet Witch

Similarities in Their Heroic Paths

Doctor Strange confronting Sinister Strange

Doctor Strange speaking to Sinister Strange

Sinister Strange battling Doctor Strange

At a crucial juncture, Doctor Strange finds himself at a crossroads. While he possesses immense power and potential to emerge as a leading hero, he is simultaneously tempted by darker forces. Recent films, including Spider-Man: No Way Home and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, showcase Strange navigating personal challenges following his return from the blip. He grapples with his identity as a superhero and struggles to find his role within the Sanctum Sanctorum.

Cumberbatch insightfully articulates Doctor Strange’s greatest vulnerability: his arrogance. He stated:

“As a person, I think he’s growing. I think he’s still learning how to act for others, how to work in a team, how to trust others. He’s a very complex and interesting character. He started out as a very arrogant character, and he was doing godly things as a genius neurosurgeon, and now he’s doing godly things as a magician. He’s growing, but he still has a lot of ongoing psychological issues that he’s trying to work through.”

Once hailed as a genius and a hero, Doctor Strange faced the consequences of his hubris when he lost the use of his hands. This catalyst set him on a transformative path of healing and self-discovery. However, the significant loss of his mentor shortly after he embraced his new role as a sorcerer left him vulnerable again. Now, returning from oblivion, he is confronted with feelings of inadequacy. Until Doctor Strange learns to embrace his true self and collaborate effectively with others, his potential within the MCU will remain unfulfilled.

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