Long rumoured to be on the list of upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe films, writer/director Scott Derrickson has announced (via Twitter) that his next film will be Doctor Strange. His previous credits include horror hits The Exorcism of Emily Rose and Sinister.
Doctor Stephen Strange was originally created by Stan Lee and Steve Ditko for Marvel in Strange Tales #110 (July 1963). A former neurosurgeon who turned to magic when his hands were damaged in an accident, he rose to become the Sorcerer Supreme, and a member of the Defenders, New Avengers and more importantly, the Illuminati. Dr. Strange has previously appeared on screen in several animated outings, along with a fairly solid television movie in 1978 starring Peter Hooten. A reference was also made to the character in Captain America: The Winter Soldier, signalling his existence in the cinematic universe.
Derrickson’s horror background should be indicative of the direction the film might take. Having written and directed most of his films, it would be fantastic to see the horror maestro bring his distinctive vision wholesale to the character. Derrickson’s next film will be Deliver Us from Evil, with Eric Bana.
No other information, including a release date or an official Marvel statement, have been released as yet.
