Doctor Strange vs. Doctor Strange 2: Which One Is Better?

When it comes to the Doctor Strange movies in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), fans are often divided on which one they prefer. While some might argue that Doctor Strange 2 offers a more exciting storyline with powerful newcomers like Wanda, others, including myself, find Doctor Strange (2016) to be a more compelling and enjoyable film. In this article, we will explore the strengths and weaknesses of both movies, offering a detailed comparison to help you make your own decision.

Doctor Strange (2016)

Doctor Strange, directed by Scott Derrickson, was a visual and narrative success. The movie not only introduced a unique protagonist in Doctor Stephen Strange, but also brought in new elements to the MCU, such as Dormammu, a character with significant geopolitical and mystical importance. One of the standout aspects of the film was the dynamic between Doctor Strange and Mordo, portrayed by Mads Mikkelsen. This relationship added depth and tension to the story, making the film more engaging for viewers.

However, despite its strengths, Doctor Strange still had some shortcomings. The movie felt somewhat bland in its middle sections, which might explain why some fans are more drawn to the follow-up film, Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022).

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, directed by Sam Raimi, introduces a new power dynamic with Wanda Maximoff, played by Elizabeth Olsen. Wanda is significantly more powerful and has a unique origin story. The film takes the MCU to new dimensions, exploring the idea of multiversal pockets and the challenges that arise from these multiple realities. However, the introduction of the power of the Speedlock and the subsequent battles did not showcase any new spells or mystical abilities that were not already seen in the WandaVision series.

The focus on Wanda's story and her powers in the film felt somewhat redundant, as many of the spells and abilities were already on display in WandaVision. This repetition could be frustrating for fans who were hoping to see more original and groundbreaking elements in the movie.

Personal Preference

For me, Doctor Strange remains the better choice. There are several reasons for this:

Unique Characters: Doctor Strange introduced Dormammu, which added a new layer to the MCU's mystical landscape. The film's characters are unique and have their distinct abilities, which enhances the overall narrative.

Dynamic Relationships: The interaction between Doctor Strange and Mordo was one of the best aspects of the film. The tension and mutual respect between these characters provided a compelling subplot that complemented the main storyline.

Scope and Storytelling: Doctor Strange had a broader scope and a more compelling story. It set the foundation for the MCU's mystical adventures and introduced elements that were not explored elsewhere in the series.

While Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness brought some exciting new elements to the game, the overemphasis on Wanda's powers and the lack of new spells or spells that were previously seen in WandaVision made the film feel repetitive and less innovative.

Conclusion

Both Doctor Strange and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness have their strengths and weaknesses. For many fans, the second installment expands on the universe and provides a fresh take on familiar characters. However, for a more immersive and character-driven experience with a broad scope, Doctor Strange remains the better choice.

Ultimately, the choice between these two films comes down to personal preference. Whether you are drawn to the unique characters, dynamic relationships, or the broader scope, both films offer something valuable to the MCU. So, which one would you choose?