Early 'Doctor Strange' Reviews Praise 'Trippy' but 'Formulaic' Marvel Movie

The doctor is not quite in, but early reviews have arrived for the Marvel Cinematic Universe's latest superhero film. "Doctor Strange" opens November 4, and so far critics are giving it a solid thumbs up, if not two enthusiastic thumbs up and a standing ovation. The highest praise seems to be for the "trippy" visuals, original score (from Michael Giacchino), and performances from Tilda Swinton and Benedict Cumberbatch.

Here are some of the initial reactions from critics:

DOCTOR STRANGE is guilty of *all* the usual Marvel movie problems, but Tilda & some VERY trippy visuals make it a spectacle worth savoring.

— david ehrlich (@davidehrlich) October 20, 2016

also, DOCTOR STRANGE is something i never thought i'd see: a Marvel movie with a good original score. what a time to be alive.

— david ehrlich (@davidehrlich) October 20, 2016

I wouldn't put #DoctorStrange in Marvel's top five but it's an entertaining movie with big ideas, gorgeous CGI and unique action sequences.

— Wolfman Bibbiani (@WilliamBibbiani) October 20, 2016

Even beyond its insane visuals (cool stuff like you've never seen before), #DoctorStrange is tons of fun. A bit formulaic, but very solid.

— Ben Pearson (@benpears) October 20, 2016

Review #DoctorStrange is a wonderfully trippy, visually stunning origin story that intros great characters into the MCU & #CloakOfLevitationpic.twitter.com/bed50icyJE

— Andy Signore (@andysignore) October 20, 2016

Cumberbatch owns Doctor Strange, the movie is funnier than I was expecting, a throwback to a pre-MCU Iron Man-like standalone story.

— Peter Sciretta (@slashfilm) October 20, 2016

Prepare to dig #DoctorStrange! Not the strongest script, but it legitimately adds new colors to the MCU, and the action is beautiful & crazy

— Evil Eric Eisenberg (@eeisenberg) October 20, 2016

I liked DOCTOR STRANGE. The most self-contained Marvel movie in a long time. Fun visuals. Almost felt like a reboot of the first IRON MAN.

— Mike Ryan (@mikeryan) October 20, 2016

not going to say DOCTOR STRANGE is the best Marvel movie. It's not. But it's an awesome Doctor Strange movie with visuals that will floor u.

— Steven Weintraub (@colliderfrosty) October 20, 2016

Get a feel for how trippy this puppy will be by listening to the end credits music:[h/t: Collider]

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