Doctor Strange 3: Is it happening and will Benedict Cumberbatch return?

Marvel Studios seems to have found its director for the much-anticipated "Doctor Strange 3." According to reports, Sam Raimi, the visionary behind Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, is in the final stages of closing a deal to helm the upcoming installment in the Doctor Strange series.

Raimi, who delivered a unique and sometimes divisive take on the Multiverse in the second film, is reportedly in advanced negotiations to return for this threequel.

The news comes after months of speculation surrounding the direction and leadership of the next chapter of the Sorcerer Supreme’s story.


Raimi’s Multiverse of Madness achieved moderate critical acclaim with a 73% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and garnered a massive global box office haul of over $950 million. The film’s financial success made the possibility of a third installment almost inevitable, as per a report by Comic Book Review.

Raimi's Return Welcomed by Marvel Fans

While Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness stirred some debate among Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) enthusiasts, Raimi’s style, characterized by his Evil Dead-inspired direction and his unique take on horror elements, proved to be a box office hit.

Fans of both Raimi and the Doctor Strange franchise are eagerly awaiting official confirmation, as previous reports had suggested that Marvel Studios head Kevin Feige was keen to collaborate with Raimi again.

At one point, there were even rumors of Raimi being considered to direct the upcoming Avengers: Secret Wars, but it seems that Doctor Strange's universe will remain his primary focus for the time being, as mentioned in the Comic Book Review report.

Plot Details Shrouded in Mystery

Details surrounding the plot of Doctor Strange 3 remain tightly under wraps. However, there are speculations that the film might adapt the "Time Runs Out" storyline from the comics, an arc that would align with the events of Multiverse of Madness.

In that storyline, the multiverse faces imminent destruction, and Doctor Strange must navigate a reality full of dangers and cosmic threats.

Another major question is whether Charlize Theron’s character, Clea, will make a return. Introduced at the end of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, Clea’s appearance has sparked numerous fan theories about her role in the future of the franchise.

Her potential return is likely, given the nature of her introduction, and fans are eager to see how her relationship with Doctor Strange evolves.

Benedict Cumberbatch's Enthusiasm to Reprise Role

Benedict Cumberbatch, who has portrayed Doctor Strange since 2016, has expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the role. Earlier this year, in an interview, Cumberbatch shared his desire to continue exploring the complexities of Doctor Strange’s character.

“I hope so. I would love to do another one,” Cumberbatch said. “Doctor Strange is such a complex character, and it feels like there is so much more to explore with him. He is such a brilliant character, and I’m still having a wild time playing him.”

FAQs

Was Multiverse of Madness a flop?

The film garnered generally positive reviews from critics and earned $955.8 million globally, ranking as the fourth-highest-grossing movie of 2022.

Does Dr Strange have 3 eyes?

In Marvel Comics, Strange's third eye represents the Eye of Agamotto, which the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) introduced as a containment vessel for the Time Stone.