While you can jump into Doctor Strange (2016) without prior Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) knowledge, understanding certain connections will significantly enrich your viewing experience and deepen your appreciation for the character’s arc within the larger narrative. This guide explores the essential and recommended films to watch before immersing yourself in the mystical world of Doctor Strange.
Why Watch Other MCU Films Before Doctor Strange?
Stephen Strange’s journey isn’t isolated. It exists within the interconnected tapestry of the MCU. While his origin story is self-contained to a large extent, his interactions with other characters, the references to previous events, and the understanding of the overall threat landscape are all enhanced by having seen other movies. It’s like reading a book in a series; you can start with book three, but you’ll miss nuances and references that make the experience richer.
The Essential Viewing: Iron Man
Though seemingly unrelated on the surface, Iron Man (2008) is arguably the most crucial film to watch before Doctor Strange. This is because it establishes the foundation of the MCU and, more importantly, showcases a protagonist, Tony Stark, whose arrogance and self-centeredness mirrors Strange’s initial character traits. Seeing Stark’s journey toward becoming a hero provides a crucial context for understanding the potential for redemption and selflessness that lies dormant within Strange. The film also provides a glimpse into the initial power dynamics of the world post-Avengers initiative, albeit indirectly.
Recommended Films: Expanding Your Understanding
These films aren’t strictly necessary, but they significantly enhance your appreciation for the MCU’s scope and the subtle connections that make it so rewarding to follow.
Captain America: The Winter Soldier
While not directly related to Strange, Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014) reveals the dismantling of S.H.I.E.L.D. and the emergence of Hydra as a persistent threat. This highlights the vulnerabilities of the world that Strange will eventually be tasked with protecting. It shows the world is in constant need of defense and the traditional defenders aren’t always enough.
Thor
Thor (2011) introduces the concept of magic and alternate realms into the MCU. This is particularly important because Doctor Strange heavily deals with these very concepts. Seeing Thor wrestle with the magical aspects of Asgard helps to prepare the viewer for the acceptance of the mystical elements that are central to Strange’s story.
The Avengers
The Avengers (2012) is crucial for understanding the team dynamic and the stakes involved in defending Earth from interdimensional threats. It showcases the powers of the Tesseract/Space Stone which is the first time many viewers see interdimensional travel. While Strange doesn’t directly interact with the Avengers in his first movie, he’s eventually destined to be a key player, so understanding the team’s established history is essential.
Contextual Films: Deeper Dive, Greater Reward
These films offer additional background that will make the viewing experience of Doctor Strange even richer, although they aren’t strictly essential.
Guardians of the Galaxy
Guardians of the Galaxy (2014) further expands the cosmic side of the MCU and demonstrates the existence of powerful artifacts like the Infinity Stones. It sets the stage for the cosmic threats that will eventually require Doctor Strange’s involvement. It also showcases characters with questionable morals fighting for the greater good, which again touches on Strange’s arc.
Avengers: Age of Ultron
While not essential, Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015) provides further context for the global threats faced by Earth’s heroes. This movie shows the increased need for heroes and defenders of Earth, implicitly setting the stage for Doctor Strange’s emergence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
FAQ 1: Do I have to watch any other films before Doctor Strange?
No, you don’t have to. Doctor Strange is designed as an origin story and can be understood without prior MCU knowledge. However, watching the films mentioned above will enhance your appreciation and understanding of the character’s place within the larger narrative.
FAQ 2: Is there a particular order I should watch the recommended films in?
Yes. The films should be watched in chronological order of release: Iron Man (2008), Thor (2011), The Avengers (2012), Captain America: The Winter Soldier (2014), Guardians of the Galaxy (2014), Avengers: Age of Ultron (2015). This ensures that you understand the MCU timeline as it unfolds.
FAQ 3: If I only have time to watch one film, which should it be?
Prioritize Iron Man. It establishes the foundation of the MCU and provides essential context for understanding the arc of a character with a similar trajectory to Doctor Strange.
FAQ 4: Will I be completely lost if I go into Doctor Strange without seeing any other MCU films?
No, you won’t be completely lost. The film does a good job of establishing Doctor Strange’s origin and his role in the world. However, some references and connections to the larger MCU will be missed.
FAQ 5: Are there any TV shows that are relevant to watching Doctor Strange?
Not directly before the first Doctor Strange film, but the MCU Disney+ shows like WandaVision and Loki become increasingly relevant as the Multiverse story develops. Watching them before Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is strongly recommended.
FAQ 6: Does the post-credit scene in Doctor Strange make more sense if I’ve seen other films?
Yes. The post-credit scene features Thor, and the context of their conversation will be clearer if you’re familiar with Thor’s storyline.
FAQ 7: How important are the Infinity Stones to Doctor Strange’s story?
The Infinity Stones become increasingly important as the MCU narrative progresses, culminating in Avengers: Infinity War and Avengers: Endgame. Understanding their power and significance, which are introduced in earlier films, is crucial for appreciating Strange’s role in those films.
FAQ 8: Should I read any comic books before watching Doctor Strange?
While not necessary, reading some classic Doctor Strange comics can certainly enrich your understanding of the character’s history and the source material. Key storylines to consider are Strange Tales #110 and onward, and Doctor Strange: The Oath.
FAQ 9: Will knowing spoilers for other MCU films ruin Doctor Strange?
Knowing major plot points for other films could potentially lessen the surprise of certain cameos or references in Doctor Strange. It’s generally best to watch the films in order to avoid spoilers.
FAQ 10: Is there a particular age rating I should be aware of for these films?
All of the films mentioned are typically rated PG-13. Be sure to check individual ratings and parental guidance recommendations before watching with younger viewers.
FAQ 11: If I’m only interested in magic and the mystical, which movies are most relevant?
Focus on Thor, Doctor Strange, and later, films like WandaVision and Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness. These films delve most deeply into the magical and mystical aspects of the MCU.
FAQ 12: Where can I watch these films?
The films are available on various streaming services, including Disney+, and can also be rented or purchased digitally or on physical media.