Why Dr. Strange Didn’t Use Portals to Dismember Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War

In Avengers: Infinity War, it would seem logical that Dr. Strange could use portals to easily disable or destroy Thanos himself or his minions. But why didn't he? Could it be that the filmmakers chose to prioritize plot devices over practical solutions? Let's delve into the reasoning behind these choices and explore why certain actions, though logical, were ultimately not taken.

Strategic Decisions and Plot Considerations

The primary reason Dr. Strange didn't use portals to dismember Thanos or his minions lies in the strategic narrative choices. The Russo brothers, the directors of Infinity War, opted for a more dramatic and visually engaging resolution. By withholding such a straightforward solution, they created tension and maintained audience engagement. This decision, while perhaps not as immediately satisfying, served to build suspense and drive the plot forward in a more compelling manner.

Technical and Storytelling Constraints

There are also technical and storytelling constraints at play. Portals, while powerful, are not invincible. Thanos, being a virtually indestructible entity, would find a way to resist or negate such an attack. Additionally, portals require precise timing and energy management, which adds another layer of complexity to the action. By not opting for an easy solution, the film maintains a sense of realism and avoids breaking established rules within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).

The Russo Brothers' Approach and Critique

The Russo brothers' approach to storytelling is often criticized for prioritizing spectacle over substance. In Infinity War, this is evident in the decision to deny Dr. Strange a more straightforward solution. Critics argue that this choice, while potentially less satisfying for some viewers, ultimately serves the larger narrative goals of the film.

James Gunn, a notable Marvel director who often critiques the MCU, points out that the film makes heavy use of "artificial tension" and "failed plot devices" to drive the narrative forward. For instance, the need to retrieve the Infinity Stones using a limited supply of particles, which becomes a plot point in Endgame, is argued to be a lazy solution that detracts from the overall quality of the story.

The Decline of Storytelling Quality

The decline in storytelling quality in the MCU is exemplified by Infinity War and Endgame. These films are often criticized for relying on simplistic plot devices and manufactured emotions, rather than deep, thought-provoking narratives. This approach has been linked to the financial success of the films, as they cater to audiences seeking immediate entertainment rather than well-crafted storytelling.

The Future of the MCU and the Cult of Discontent

The Russo brothers’ approach to storytelling in Infinity War has set a precedent for the MCU's future direction. While this has led to a significant return on investment, it has also alienated a portion of the fanbase who value substance over spectacle. The future of the MCU is fraught with challenges, as it must balance financial success with maintaining the quality of storytelling that originally drew fans to the franchise.

The overarching question remains: can the MCU find a way to strike a balance between the demands of the marketplace and the quality of storytelling? Only time will tell, but the current state of the franchise suggests that the toxic culture within Disney and the MCU must change for the franchise to thrive beyond the current phase.

As the MCU progresses, it will be crucial for the filmmakers to remember the importance of good storytelling. Whether through portals or other innovative means, the key is to ensure that every choice serves to enhance the narrative rather than detract from it.

In conclusion, the reason Dr. Strange didn't use portals to disable Thanos in Avengers: Infinity War is a complex mix of narrative strategy, technical constraints, and the larger context of the MCU's storytelling approach. While this decision might not align with what some fans desire, it is a reflection of the broader narrative and commercial imperatives guiding the franchise as a whole.