Is Marvel reviving a beloved MCU character?
One of the biggest issues facing the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) after Endgame is the sheer number of unresolved plot threads, and it might be the most frustrating problem of all. But fans can look forward to some resolution, as reports suggest that Marvel Studios is bringing back a brilliant director to revive a beloved character.
Let’s get straight to the point: Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness, released in 2022, didn’t hit the mark. The script felt disorganized, Wanda’s character was poorly handled, and the multiverse aspect fell flat, with Doctor Strange only exploring one alternate reality. Still, despite its flaws, the movie had its moments of entertainment.
And why was that? Sam Raimi!
As a master of horror, Raimi has a knack for blending campy elements with genuine emotional depth. He’s the genius behind Evil Dead, one of the best and longest-lasting horror franchises out there. His Spider-Man trilogy also played a crucial role in building the superhero movie craze that ultimately led to the creation of the MCU. Raimi knows how to craft a fun movie in both horror and superhero genres—just look at the epic musical battle between two versions of Stephen Strange in Multiverse of Madness!
Unfortunately, Raimi didn’t have the creative freedom he needed for Multiverse of Madness, especially after Marvel Studios discarded the best version of the script. But what if he were to return for Doctor Strange 3? Imagine if he had more control to turn the next adventure of Stephen Strange into a full-on horror film. That would be incredible, right? It seems like that’s exactly the kind of arrangement Raimi might be negotiating behind the scenes.
So, is Sam Raimi really coming back to direct Doctor Strange 3?
The mid-credits scene of Multiverse of Madness introduced Charlize Theron as Clea, a powerful sorceress from the Dark Dimension. In that brief moment, she comes to Earth and asks for Stephen’s help to tackle some universe-threatening events, and they leave together to confront an ancient evil. This scene packed a lot of potential into just a few minutes, which makes it surprising that Doctor Strange 3 hasn’t been officially announced yet.
However, with disappointing box office results and growing fan dissatisfaction, Marvel Studios is making some big changes to get the MCU back on track. For example, Robert Downey Jr. has been brought in to portray Victor von Doom, taking over for Kang after Jonathan Majors faced real-life issues. In this context, bringing back Raimi and greenlighting a third Doctor Strange film feels like a smart move.
Although Multiverse of Madness didn’t perform as well as Marvel had hoped, they understand that the creative shake-ups behind the scenes played a significant role. Raimi is a well-respected filmmaker, and having his name attached to any project automatically boosts interest. Plus, a film that explores the Dark Dimension and dives deeper into the Multiverse would be a perfect opportunity for Raimi to unleash his wild creativity. If it doesn’t work out, it wouldn’t disrupt the main continuity, making it easier to tidy up the storylines. Moreover, the success of Agatha All Along, which had a modest budget, shows that fans are eager for more magical, quirky, and thrilling stories.
It’s time for Marvel to bring Raimi back and let him take the reins of the script as well as directing. Give him the freedom to experiment with practical effects and let his unique style shine in Doctor Strange 3. And why not allow him to give Bruce Campbell’s Pizza Poppa a chance at redemption? That’s exactly the kind of project the MCU needs right now!
