What have I been doing this week? I’m glad you asked! Here’s what’s been on my watchlist this week:

*Note: My reviews usually contain spoilers. You have been warned. Proceed at your own risk.*

After a month-long hiatus, due to my brother’s wedding followed by a rather lovely week on holiday, I was finally able to return to my usual viewing. Strictly speaking, this is a Month in Review.

Movies

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (2022)

I’d actually watched Doctor Strange the day of its release, but due to my immediate departure the next morning, I was completely unable to write up my review. In a way, though, it gave me a chance to sit with the film and figure out how I really felt about it.

I remember my first impressions of the film were a bit underwhelmed; I felt like the production really hadn’t explored the premise of the film to its full potential. There were a lot of interesting concepts introduced, however, none were explored in any kind of depth. Wanda (Elizabeth Olsen) felt like a superficial villain (especially since I understand her journey in WandaVision), the alternate Stranges (with varying kinds of hair and make up on Benedict Cumberbatch) were a poor commentary on fighting the evils within oneself, and the recurring romance with Doctor Palmer felt forced – and like a waste of Rachel McAdams’ acting prowess. Even the newly introduced America Chavez (Xochitl Gomez) felt like she was there more to be a plot device rather than a character.

Tonally as well, this film felt miles apart from previous Marvel offerings. There was a distinctly horror feel to the film, a genre that I actively avoid, so there were definitely sequences where I was watching out of the corners of my eyes. The battles between Wanda and the various Stephens in particular stand out, the mirror one being the top of the list. While visually stunning, it definitely made me uncomfortable.

The score for this film was a highlight for me, and it was no surprise to find that Danny Elfman was responsible for it. The music throughout the film was what really set the mood of the scenes; the musical battle between Stranges, for instance, was a visual treat to accompany the music, rather than the other way around.

While there was plenty to  appreciate or dislike about the film, overall I came away from it without a particularly strong impression. I find that Marvel’s more recent films have less impact on me now than previous films did – especially when I compare it with the initial few one. While the films themselves aren’t producing a strong response in me, that in itself is a problem. Cinema should stir you, be an escape, or encourage discussion. And sadly, these films aren’t doing that anymore.