Even thoughDoctor Strangehas been filming since November, it’s never too late to add a new cast member.The Hollywood Reporterreveals thatThe MartianstarBenedict Wonghas signed on to play theSorcerer Supreme’s aptly-named sidekick, Wong. It isn’t known if he just recently joined the cast, or if he was part of the production when filming started last year.
Wong has a long history in theMarvel Comics, making his debut in in 1963’s “Strange Tales” #110. In the comics, Wong was a disciple of theAncient One(Tilda Swinton) who was sent to America to assist Dr. Stephen Strange (Benedict Cumberbatch) during his journey of learning the mystical arts. The character also performs healing duties and assists with occult matters. One of his primary duties is looking after the Doctor’s body while he is astral projecting into other planes of existence.
Benedict Wongjoins a cast that also includesChiwetel EjioforasBaron Mordo,Rachel McAdamsas the female lead, rumored to be Night Nurse andMichael Stuhlbargas Nicodemus West.Amy LandeckerandScott Adkinsalso star in unspecified roles. It isn’t known how much longer production will last onDoctor Strange, but the studio has set a November 4 release date.
We have previously seenset photosthat teased the Sanctum Sanctorum, which also featured an artifact that could be the Eye of Agamotto. In the Marvel Comics, the Doctor uses this device to defeat Dormammu. The Sanctum Santorum is a building that was built upon the site of pagan sacrifices, and before that Native American rituals, which is said to be a focal point for supernatural energies. ProducerKevin Feigerecently confirmed that both the Sanctum Sanctorum and the Eye of Agamotto will be featured in this highly-anticipated adventure, teasing that the Eye of Agamotto is actually the Time Gem that fits into the Infinity Gauntlet.
Scott Derricksonis directingDoctor Strangefrom a script byJon Spaihts, based on the comic book character created byStan LeeandSteve Ditko. Aside from his role as Jet Propulsion Laboratory director Bruce Ng inThe Martian,Benedict Wongalso stars in the Netflix seriesMarco Poloas Kublai Khan, and his other prominent feature credits includeKick-Ass 2andPrometheus. What do you think about this casting choice forDoctor Strange?
