As we anticipate stepping through the doorway into the Multiverse, Marvel Studios is gearing up for the worldwide release of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. The first MCU film of 2022 was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and, therefore, had its official release dates rescheduled.
More than eight years following the first standalone film in 2016, events from previous MCU titles will be crossing over in this strange film event. Ahead of its release, here's everything you need to know about the upcoming film, including its official release date, trailer, cast and characters and more.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness – Release date and trailer
Marvel Studios have scheduled the release of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness on 6th May 2022 worldwide. The film was first slated to release on 5th November 2021; however, due to the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting film production, it was first moved to 25th March 2022 before its final May release date.
The sequel was first announced at San Diego Comic-Con in 2019, with the original director and co-writer Scott Derrickson set to return alongside the cast; however, he left the production citing creative differences. While Derrickson remains an executive producer for the sequel, Marvel Studios brought in original Spider-Man director Sam Raimi to expand on Derrickson's vision for Doctor Strange.
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Likewise, Loki head writer Michael Waldron was brought on board as he worked closely with WandaVision writers to work on the film's script. The studio has released plenty of featurettes alongside the official trailer to give viewers some context on what to expect in the upcoming MCU film.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness – Film synopsis
In this spoiler-free synopsis of Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, the film takes place months following the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Haunted by the aftermath of No Way Home, Stephen Strange has a recurring dream (or nightmare) about the titular Multiverse as he seeks out fellow heroes and allies to explore what it is.
Undoubtedly, the film will introduce variants as previously explored in the Marvel Studios series Loki and What If…? with the potential of introducing new and familiar characters to the MCU continuity. Indeed, it'll be pushing the envelope, employing horror themes, surrealist scenes and mind-bending sequences that will intrigue audiences on opening night and beyond.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness – Confirmed cast and characters
The official trailer for Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness introduced the film's primary cast, including several actors returning from the first film, including its lead, Benedict Cumberbatch. The sequel will introduce a new character, lifted from Marvel Comics, America Chavez, who has some involvement with the film's narrative with a potential of future MCU appearances.
- Benedict Cumberbatch as Dr Stephen Strange
- Elizabeth Olsen as Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch
- Chiwetel Ejiofor as Karl Mordo
- Benedict Wong as Wong
- Xochitl Gomez as America Chavez
- Rachel McAdams as Christine Palmer
- Michael Stuhlbarg as Nicodemus West
While there are a few surprises, especially with this film of other Marvel characters appearing in this film; however, Marvel Studio hasn't confirmed this as of writing. Rumours speculate that the film's groundwork could be a launching pad to officially introduce the Fantastic Four or the X-Men into the MCU.
Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness releases in theatres worldwide on 6th May 2022. For more superhero content, check out our section dedicated to Marvel gaming and entertainment news, updates, guides, features and more.
Featured image courtesy of Marvel Studios.